How well do seniors remain involved within their community? It is vitally important that older people interact socially with others, filling roles that are respected and valued.
“During the October 2005 Premier’s Congress on Aging and Senior’s Issues, Dr. John Helliwell of the University of British Columbia argued that social connectedness – engagement within our communities and others in our society – is key to the quality of life for older people.” (Report: Aging Well In British Columbia)
For this reason, their integration and inclusion in society should be based upon a concept of services for all people, over that of services for older adults based solely on age. Some might argue this is splitting peas and that the latter is essential to address special needs. While this may be true in certain circumstances, it also leads to ageist attitudes towards older people – a sort of ‘them’ and not ‘us’ issue.
Media portrayals of seniors have been steadily reinforcing this outdated stereotype; obscuring the active and engaged reality many of them live in. For example, the other day an octogenarian (over eighty years old) almost succeeded in performing a full one legged squat in front of my astounded eyes. I can assure you that many people in their prime cannot do this complex exercise. His spontaneous conversation, outgoing mannerism and obvious physical dexterity proves that in many cases, our perception of seniors is one that has been shaped for us, and is contrary to reality.
Another challenge towards full societal participation is with ethno cultural minorities, recent immigrants, aboriginal elders or those who have trouble communicating in English. Difficulties may manifest in translation services in the health system or cultural specific services in residential care and acute care facilities.
Government and service providers need to collaborate more closely with these groups to make sure services are fully accessible and culturally appropriate. This might involve members of these communities in development of services to ensure they meet critical needs.
Volunteerism also plays an important role in providing independence, social interaction and quality of life for older people, and most of this comes from their peers. Statistics Canada says that nearly a third of people over 65 volunteered in 2004 – more than any other age group. Non-profit agencies further contribute in this cause, with financial support from government, businesses and individuals. This arrangement is urged to continue, according to the Report of the Premier’s Council on Aging and Seniors Issues.
Another important social connection is public information, which helps older people remain independent and involved. Local governments need to be better placed to work in developing and maintaining a database of successful initiatives and resources which serve or engage seniors. Resources from groups such as the Union of BC Municipalities, and the Rural BC Network make for a proactive effort.
It won’t be easy to change outlooks and habits. But given the magnitude of senior demographic growth, addressing these issues early is not only prudent, but economically wise.
As a social rule, some talk more than others, and some may even get on the nerves of others with this habit. But if you love to chit chat you might be doing yourself some good: research shows that small talk helps memory. According to a study to be published in the February issue of the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, just 10 minutes of talking with somebody face to face was shown to be just as effective on memory and intellectual performance as spending the same time doing crosswords or Sudoku puzzles.
Posted by Jorg Mardian RHN, CPT 
Posted by Jorg Mardian RHN, CPT 