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I’ve spent the bulk of my career focused on building strategic partnerships that enhance service delivery in several health care sectors, including homecare. I’m a self-professed “nuts and bolts” kind of guy where small tweaks can often make big changes.
But I’m focused on the big picture as well. And something came into my view recently that is sure to make a significant impact on our industry.
That is, how we talk about aging.
As a society, we often don’t like to talk about aging and all the things that come along with it. That may be why we experience pervasive ageism and a negative connotation to growing older.
A recent conference sponsored by the trade publication Advertising Week attracted members of creative industries such as marketing, technology and culture to bring key issues and ideas to the forefront. This four-day event with more than 800 speakers drew thousands in the advertising industry.
I noticed that AARP was involved in two prominent sessions: “The Rise of the 50+ Tech Consumer” and “Why Ageism Must Be Part of the DE&I (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Discussion.” Martha Bourdreau, AARP’s chief communications & marketing officer, was joined on the stage by Kristin Flanik, who is president and CEO of the advertising agency power BBDO NY.
First of all, congratulations to AARP for bringing these topics to the forefront. It is fantastic that ageism is being addressed by the advertising industry, which tends to ignore older demographics because they are not considered “target markets.” As they wrote in their session description, those over 50 make up 47% of the U.S. population and drive more than $8.3 trillion in annual economic activity. Clearly, the aging demographic should not be ignored.
But the aging population is hindered by stereotypes in advertising. It wasn’t that long ago that E-Trade received negative reactions to its “This Is Getting Old” commercial during the 2018 Superbowl. The following year, Fast Company noted that ads geared toward older consumers tended to be condescending at best and offensive at worst. More recently, author Ken Dychtwald addressed the continuation of ageism in advertising in an AARP article, saying “ads that show contempt for older people are still far too common.”
That’s why I appreciated a recent article in New York Magazine’s recurring column, “The Strategist.” Staffers put together a 57-question survey for Strategist readers 65 and older. Included were questions about their most beloved clothing brands, their most coveted electronics and the gifts they love to use.
Guess what? They are busting stereotypes! They are interested in looking good and feeling good. Sixty-one percent shop online at least once a week. The stationary bike is a big post-retirement buy. Hoka and Nike are mentioned as prominent shoe brands. They debate the merits of Kindles vs. iPads.
This doesn’t sound like the end of the road for an aging population. And that’s great, since we know that by 2035 there will be more people 65 and older than those 18 and younger for the first time ever.
Those of us working on the front lines with an older population should pay attention to these trends and share them broadly. We are the ambassadors of the aging process, which is why we’re in a great position to influence how we talk about aging. Here are some ways to do it.
1. Change the language. Take a look at “Words Up: A Guide to Inclusive Language,” a report from an advertising agency that tackled numerous aspects of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), including ageism. After addressing stereotypical ads, they came up with a series of words that should be welcomed and those to avoid:
Adopt these words: “older,” “an elder,” “mature,” “wise,” “seasoned,” “experienced”
Avoid these words: “old person,” “golden years,” “elderly”
Personally, I’m on a mission to eliminate the use of term “elderly.” Getting older is part of life. “Elderly” connotes an affliction, not a life stage.
2. Focus on later semesters. Our SYNERGY HomeCare gerontologist Dr. Macie Smith refers to aging as “another semester in life.” Think about high school and college. Weren’t our last semesters so much better than the early ones? Aging is part of life’s education. Our clients are still learning, doing, growing, caring and loving. Let’s work to always share these examples. And we should always be trying to learn from them, and then share their wisdom, as we all work to show these later semesters should be welcomed, not feared.
3. Embrace positivity. Unfortunately, many of us are dealing with older people who have physical and cognitive concerns. But that shouldn’t stop us from saying wonderful things about our clients and what they have achieved—and are achieving—in life. Let’s emphasize the joys we bring our clients, the joys they bring us, the pleasures in their days and the things they’ve done and learned. During our “SYNERGY Effect” ad campaign, we focused on how we “propel lives forward.” We all do that every day. Let’s make sure we share it.
4. Say something. I was on a video conference recently and one of the participants on the call said, “I was in a store and this old cashier lady…” I stopped the call and politely said, “Why did you say ‘old cashier lady?’ Isn’t it great that she’s able to live her life and still work?” Sure, it’s not easy to correct someone, but we should all do it.
I’ve concluded that even though I’m not a marketer, I am in marketing. The interactions we have every day provide us with great insight in the positives of aging. Let’s commit to showcasing them.
If you have any questions, please call Synergy HomeCare - Boulder 303-465-4663.
Strong relationships between grandparents and grandchildren are more than just heartwarming. They have been shown to contribute to better health, sharper minds, and deeper emotional connections across generations. At Right at Home, weve seen firsthand how relationships in grandfamilies (also called kinship families) improve the quality of life for both older adults and younger family members, says Patti Walter, owner/operator at Right at Home Northern Colorado As an in-home caregiving agency, we not only support day-to-day care but also champion the kind of intergenerational connections that lead to healthier, happier lives. Heres why nurturing the grandparent-grandchild bond mattersand how it helps at any age. The Health Benefits Go Both WaysFor grandparents:Spending meaningful time with grandchildren can reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline, and even chronic illness. Studies show that older adults who engage regularly with younger generations report lower levels of loneliness and higher life satisfaction. Conversations and shared activities also help keep the mind active. Whether helping with homework, discussing current events, or sharing stories from the past, these interactions stimulate memory, language, and problem-solving skillsall critical for healthy aging. For grandchildren:The benefits arent one-sided, says Walter Grandchildren who have strong relationships with their grandparents often show greater emotional intelligence, resilience, and a stronger sense of identity. Grandparents offer a unique kind of supportless authoritative than a parent, but still deeply rooted in love and life experience. In families where grandparents help with caregivingeither regularly or as neededchildren can experience more stability, better behavior, and improved academic outcomes. And even as teens or adults, grandchildren often gain valuable perspective from a grandparents lived experience. Mind the (Communication) GapOf course, every generation speaks its own language. Misunderstandings between grandparents and grandchildren can happen, especially in todays fast-moving digital culture. But these gaps can be bridged with a bit of patience and intention. Walter suggests some tips for different generations to improve communication with each other: Dont assume disinterest. Grandparents may not know current slang or how to use current technology, but that doesnt mean they dont care. Grandchildren may seem tied to their toys or screens, butas anyone who has raised children knowsthey are always listening. Ask open-ended questions. Encouraging storytelling and reflection can lead to richer conversations. Be mindful of hearing or cognitive limitations. For grandchildren, making simple adjustmentsspeaking clearly, avoiding noisy environmentscan make a big difference. Grandparents can make the most of mealtimes or times when grandchildren are least busy. Respect different life stages. A teen might be navigating identity or stress about the future; a grandparent may be dealing with health issues or loss. Understanding context helps both sides show compassion, says Walter. Supporting Each Other Through CareIn-home caregiving often highlights how much grandparents and grandchildren lean on one another. Grandsboth generationshave been caring for each other more and more in recent years. Adult grandchildren may step into caregiving roles, providing companionship, managing medications, or helping coordinate care. On the flip side, grandparents often remain active caregivers in their own rightbabysitting, offering financial support, or simply being a trusted presence. These roles can be deeply rewarding, but also emotionally complex for both parties. Whether or not the grands relationships include caregiving, there are many ways to support them: Schedule regular visits or calls. Routine contact reduces isolation and builds trust and familiarity. Share activities. Cook a favorite recipe together, take a walk, or explore family history. Use techcurrent and olderto stay connected. Teach each otherwhether its FaceTime or how to play an old record. Include caregiving support. Home care agencies can ease the load by providing daily assistance and helping maintain a safe, comfortable home environment. Caregiving Equals ConnectionGrandparent-grandchild relationships can be an important part of healthy aging and emotional development for all involved. They remind us that caregiving is more than a service; its a connection. At Right at Home, were proud to support families in building and maintaining those connections, every step of the way. Need help supporting a grandparent or looking for ways to strengthen intergenerational bonds? Our care team is here to help with personalized, in-home services and expert guidance. About Right at Home of Northern Colorado The Northern Colorado office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, LLC, serving the communities of Larimer and Weld County. For more information, contact Right at Home of Northern Colorado at rightathome.net/northern-colorado , at 970-494-1111 or by email at pwalter@ncoloradorah.com.
By Dustin M. Cole, MDGrand River Health Aging often gets a bad rap. Wrinkles, memory slips, and sore joints tend to dominate the conversation. But what if growing older brought with it a host of unexpected giftsones that outweigh the inconveniences of aging? The truth is, aging brings numerous psychological, emotional, social, and even physical benefits that are often overlooked.Happiness Grows with AgeStudy after study has shown that older adults report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction compared to their younger counterparts. Between the ages of 65 and 85, happiness actually increases, with many seniors ranking among the happiest people in society. Why? Theyve mastered the art of realistic expectations, theyre more comfortable in their own skin, and theyve learned to let go of unnecessary pressure.Many elderly individuals describe the last decade of their lives as the happiest. They emphasize the joy of living in the momentsomething they wish they'd embraced earlier in life.A Positive Shift in PerspectiveWith age comes increased self-esteem, self-control, and altruism. Seniors are more likely to focus on the good, let go of negativity, and cherish meaningful connections. Neurological studies even show that older adults react more strongly to positive images and are less emotionally impacted by negative ones. Emotional stability improves over time, and worry tends to decline with each decade.Sharper Minds, Wiser ChoicesAlthough aging brings some changes in memory and processing speed, it also enhances cognitive abilities in other areas. Older adults often demonstrate stronger problem-solving skills, richer creativity, and greater insight thanks to decades of accumulated knowledge. Theyre better at identifying patterns and making connectionsskills particularly useful in complex, real-life situations.People in their 40s to 60s often outperform younger adults in vocabulary, reasoning, and spatial orientation. Their broader perspective allows for deeper empathy, better conflict resolution, and wiser decision-making.Strengthened RelationshipsOlder adults tend to focus more on what truly mattersfamily, friendships, and meaningful experiences. Deep, supportive relationships are not only emotionally fulfilling but are also key to physical health and longevity. The long-running Harvard Study of Adult Development found that quality relationships are one of the most powerful predictors of happiness and health in old ageeven more so than wealth or fame.The Power of Positive ThinkingAging well isnt just about what happens to your bodyits also about how you think about it. A positive outlook on aging is linked to longer life expectancy, better memory retention, and stronger daily functioning. On average, people with a positive perception of aging live 7.5 years longer than those with a negative outlook.Movement and Connection: Pillars of Healthy AgingStaying physically active is one of the most effective ways to maintain vitality. Regular aerobic activity boosts heart health, strengthens muscles and bones, and improves brain function. It also reduces the risk of depression, improves sleep, and helps prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers.Equally important is staying socially engaged. Maintaining close relationships and participating in community activities help prevent loneliness, reduce stress, and even lower the risk of dementia.Real-Life InspirationCentenarians like Jeanne Calmet (who biked at 100 and quit smoking at 120) and Fauja Singh (who ran marathons into his 100s) serve as vivid reminders that aging doesnt have to mean slowing down. Their secrets? A sense of humor, active lifestyle, and a positive attitude.In SummaryAging brings with it a remarkable opportunity to live more fully, love more deeply, and engage more meaningfully. If you want to age well, remember the formula is simple:Move your body.Feed your mind.Stay connected.Think positively.As Abraham Lincoln said, In the end, its not the years in your life that count. Its the life in your years.
Eating healthy can help us maintain an active lifestyle. Good nutrition can help manage weight, boost energy, and prevent diseases. For caregivers, ensuring that seniors make nutritious choices while grocery shopping can significantly impact their overall well-being. With some simple strategies, shopping trips can become easier and more rewarding.Learning to Read Nutrition LabelsShopping smarter starts with deciphering nutrition labels. These labels are filled with valuable information about the foods we consume. Start by checking the serving size, as portions can be deceiving. Many packages contain multiple servings, which can impact calorie intake if you're not careful. Look at the total calories and consider how these fit into a daily diet.Pay attention to key nutrients such as:Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for balanced energyVitamins and minerals to support immune and bone healthHidden sugars and unhealthy fats, which often go by names like high-fructose corn syrup or hydrogenated oilsReading nutrition labels thoroughly can help you make healthier choices and limit unnecessary sugars and fats that may lead to health concerns.Choosing Fresh ProduceIncorporating a diverse mix of fruits and vegetables offers numerous health benefits. Fresh produce is rich in essential nutrients that support overall health. In Colorado, local and seasonal produce might include:Spring: Leafy greens like spinach and kaleSummer: Berries, tomatoes, and zucchiniFall: Pumpkins, squash, and applesWinter: Root vegetables like carrots and potatoesWhen selecting fruits and vegetables, look for vibrant colors, firm textures, and fragrant aromas. These are indicators of freshness and ripeness. Avoid produce with bruises or blemishes, as these can indicate spoilage.Avoiding Processed FoodsProcessed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and preservatives, which can adversely affect health. Limiting these items is key to maintaining a nutritious diet.When shopping, try these swaps:Choose plain yogurt over flavored optionsOpt for fresh meats instead of packaged deli itemsSelect whole grains like brown rice or quinoa instead of refined white breadStock up on healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits instead of processed snacksBy focusing on whole, natural foods, you can provide better nutritional support for seniors.Navigating Store Sections for Optimal NutritionSuccessful shopping for nutritious foods is all about knowing where to look. Grocery stores are generally organized with perimeter sections offering the freshest options, such as produce, dairy, and meats. You'll find the healthiest, least processed foods in these areas.Take time to explore the inner aisles for important staples, too. Whole grains, nuts, and legumes are often nutritious options in these sections. Just remember, the closer a food looks to how it appears in nature, the healthier it will likely be.Need Support with Healthy Eating at Home?Making informed choices at the grocery store is vital for better health. With these tips, seniors and their caregivers can foster a diet that supports long-term well-being.If you or a loved one needs support maintaining a healthy lifestyle, contact us at Senior Helpers Fort Collins. Our team proudly serves Fort Collins, Englewood, Littleton, Lone Tree, and Loveland, and we're here to help you embrace healthier habits. Call us with any questions 970-344-6227.
At SYNERGY HomeCare, "CARE" stands for Coordinated And Responsive Engagement. We provide an integrated total solution to meeting your specific care needs. Whether for family members, friends or for yourself, you can be assured of the very best and highest quality care available. As loved ones experience the physical and emotional effects of aging, such as memory-related disorders (dementia and Alzheimers), chronic or acute illness or physical injury; our highly skilled caregivers are there to provide safety, comfort, and dignified assistance. We provide peace of mind and ensure that life at home will continue to be as independent and safe as possible.Call us now, at (303)465-HOME, to learn how our comprehensive CARE approach can help those with supportive needs, continue to live in their own home for as long as they like.