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From Arc to U: 3 Reasons to "Flip the Script" on Aging:

Updated: May 4

Let's "Flip the Script" on Aging: Literally From the Arc to the U



Can we all agree that our society needs a new narrative for aging?

The one we have now—where life is imagined as a steep Arc that peaks in midlife & then declines until the end — is outdated and completely detached from reality.

1st – U for "U curve of Happiness:" research reveals a U Curve of happiness to our life course - not an Arc -we actually are happiest at the earlier & later stages of life.

2nd – U for "Universal Design:" Ageism Awareness means the blinders can come off about how people see themselves, their futures, & their environments. Now Home modifications can become part of a positive response to an ageist environment, & not a symbol of personal decline.


3rd - U for "Us”

We flip the script with the Positivity Effect.


“Older adults pay attention to & remember more positive than negative information.” - Laura Carstensen, Stanford Center on Longevity

So that’s how we roll - with more positive than negative information.

And there are so many more positive, assets of maturity to explore – resilience, innovative thinking, conflict mediation skills - these all get better with age.

Assets of Maturity: What Would You Add to the List?

We Flip the Script by learning to recognize the limitations that are rooted in ageism, not in aging, and reflecting that in all our interactions.


Not by denying the hardships of aging, but by Expanding & Balancing out Conversations about Aging to include the Positivity Effect.


Let's use Ageism Awareness as a tool - for empowering older adults to expand the choices they see for themselves & their futures & take action to #ageismproof their homes - preventing falls, reducing medical costs, and driving development in the Aging in Place market.


Ageism Awareness alone has been determined to reduce ageism. The more we become aware of each other's efforts—the more we share these messages—the faster we break down outdated narratives about aging and build a culture that supports both needs and the potential of Elderhood.



How will you #FliptheScript on Aging? Please #SHARE your favorite #AgeismAwareness resources!

How can community groups, businesses, and organizations "Flip the Script" on Aging?


  • Share thoughts and stories on social using #FlipTheScriptOnAging.

  • Share tips on language and activities that dispel myths about aging.

  • Host events or programs where older adults can mentor peers, younger adults, or youths to help dispel misconceptions about ageism.

What can individuals do to combat ageism?

  • Celebrate the contributions of people of all ages in the workplace and community.

  • Avoid ageist statements when talking about growing older.

  • Promote fact-based messages about older adults’ abilities and value to communities.



 
 
 

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