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.

May is mental health awareness month. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act. As our loved ones age, they often need to navigate hard and uncomfortable situations. Their needs change. They begin losing their independence. Things become uncertain. Now, maybe more than ever before, they may need additional emotional support along their journey.

FamilyAssets and ElderLife Financial recently published resources that you can share with families on topics from talking with a parent about senior living communities to choosing the right one and transitioning to life after a move-in. Showing your support from the beginning of their senior care journey will allow families to trust in your community or service and know the support will continue once they or mom or dad move in.