Why Our Views on Aging Are Holding Us Back

Aging, Stigma, and Why the Conversation Belongs Everywhere Peter Murphy Lewis and Jalene continue a conversation about aging and gerontology: where should it be discussed, and how can we move beyond seeing aging only as decline? They explore gaps in healthcare training, the stigma older adults face, the influence of everyday language, and why thinking about aging should include identity, relationships, and wellness - not just the body. In this episode: • Why aging and gerontology deserve attention beyond college campuses and long-term care • How aging is covered in healthcare administrator and CNA training • Why an acute-care model may not reflect the realities of aging • The stigma that older adults have little value or productivity • What it means to consider the “youth side” of aging • How aging can shape identity, wellness, and relationships • Why words like “old” can carry a negative connotation • How people can reclaim language and shift its meaning • Why Dr. Masters could add a valuable perspective to the conversation Timestamps 00:00 - Opening the aging conversation 01:26 - How aging is covered in healthcare training 02:21 - The limits of an acute-care approach to aging 02:44 - Stigma and misconceptions about older adults 03:44 - Introducing the “youth side” of aging 04:11 - A younger person’s question about identity and the future 04:39 - Aging beyond the body: wellness, family, and relationships 05:10 - Using “old” as a negative label 06:17 - Owning words and changing their meaning 07:33 - Why Dr. Masters should join the conversation 07:51 - Peter’s emotional interview project 08:05 - The “Aging is Hot” T-shirt 09:15 - Closing thoughts Thank you for listening to People Worth Caring About. If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout