#28 Challenging Ageism in America: Redefining Aging and Its Impact on Senior Living

Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci discusses ageism in America and its impact on the senior living industry. He highlights the recent presidential debate as an example of ageism in politics and explores how modern medicine and lifestyle changes are allowing people to live longer, healthier lives. Vinci emphasizes the need to shift the narrative from focusing on age to focusing on the stage of life someone is in. He also suggests ways for senior living communities to cater to the needs of active older adults, such as promoting active lifestyles, offering professional development opportunities, and highlighting outside community engagement.

Takeaways

Ageism is a form of discrimination based on someone's age, and it is prevalent in various aspects of society, including politics and the senior living industry.

Modern medicine and lifestyle changes have allowed people to live longer, healthier lives, challenging traditional views on aging and retirement.

Senior living communities should shift their focus from age to the stage of life someone is in and cater to the needs of active older adults.

Promoting active lifestyles, offering professional development opportunities, and highlighting community engagement are effective strategies for attracting and supporting active older adults.

Senior living communities can combat ageism by celebrating the achievements and contributions of their residents and advocating for age-friendly policies.

Chapters

00:00 Ageism in America and the Presidential Debate

07:11 Redefining Aging: Focusing on Stage of Life

13:06 Modern Medical Advancements and Life Expectancy

14:55 Catering to Active and Engaged Older Adults in Senior Living Communities

18:41 Challenging the Traditional View of Retirement

19:51 How Active Senior Living Residents Contribute to Your Community Culture

22:55 The Evolving Perspective of Retirement

23:48 Strategies for Senior Living Providers to Appeal to a Broader Audience

27:52 The Changing View of Aging in America