Media

Ageism Awareness Day happens this year on October 7. Specifically in the senior care industry, we have a responsibility to the older adults we serve to understand and recognize ageism and be part of the solution. This article focuses on internalized ageism, which happens when an older adult believes the negative biases around aging that society normalizes. This disturbing aspect of ageism finds its roots in ageist attitudes of society rather than fact. Yet it can contribute to older adults’ emotional and physical decline when they believe they “cannot” or “should not” simply because of their age.

Older adults looking to move into a senior living community often feel like they’re losing some aspects of their independence. However, communities for senior living often offer a balance between self-sufficiency and support, allowing residents to maintain their freedom while providing a safe and engaging environment. As Independence Day approaches, we reflect on what independence means. For the older adults we serve in the senior care space, independence is ever-changing but possible with appropriate support. And that is what senior living communities provide, which is priceless.