The Negative Stereotypes on Aging

Is aging a bad thing? Let’s debunk the myths and the negative stereotypes associated with this inevitable biological process.We live in an age that is terrified of aging. I don’t think humanity has ever witnessed such a pressure to look ‘young and beautiful’ as much as we do nowadays. Of course, we all want to stay healthy and slow down the aging process as much as possible with a healthy diet and exercise. It is wonderful –and very important- to take good care of this physical body we inhabit. After all, it is our only vessel to navigate through this lifetime.

In the past, nobody wanted to be old and sick. But nowadays, nobody wants to be old, period. Even if it means acquiring wisdom, accomplishing great deeds or simply finding contentment, we just don’t want it!

There are many negative stereotypes about aging. People often associate aging with being sick, dependent, lonely, purposeless, and a burden on our family and children. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. What we call ‘degenerative illness’ that people associate with aging is the result of decades-long negligence and poor habits. A healthy diet, exercise, and emotional wellbeing can go a long way to prevent degenerative illness, according to Dr. Christian Northrup[1][2]. She has written a lot of books about aging gracefully with joy, and life after menopause, debunking myths and scare-tales about aging for both men and women.

In consumer societies, people are treated as commodities with an expiration date. This ‘expiration date’ is due when you are too old –or too worn out- to work. For women, they ‘expire’ in society’s eyes once they are no longer young and desired. It is fascinating how a once powerful CEO is reduced to nothing overnight once he/she retires. Unfortunately, I am seeing this trend gradually creeping up to our Middle Eastern family-based societies as well. Is our value-based merely on our looks or our so-called ‘career’, rather than our value as human beings?

We are constantly bombarded with ads for products and services that “fight” aging, with the promise of eternal youth. And because of that, we have become accustomed to panic at the first appearance of grey hair or a tiny wrinkle. We need to remind ourselves that media is simply playing on our fears and insecurities to make more profit.

We are not going to stay under 40 forever, but Western media rarely portrays positive figures for life above that age. There is too much emphasis on having a ‘career’; oftentimes a burdensome job that we find ourselves stuck with, rather than a fulfilling life path. I feel that such emphasis is in favor of big companies who simply need more workforce.

A career is an important aspect of life, but it is not the only one. Building a life also means cultivating our relationships with our family, friends, and community. Also, not compromising our health in favor of these careers. That way, when our career ends, we would have a support system that can usher us into the next phase of our journey.

A purpose is much more powerful than a job or a “career”. It gives life meaning and depth. Without a purpose, one may continue to depend on others for fulfillment, especially as we age. Find something you are passionate about and you will be rewarded with lifelong contentment. Youth is a great time to explore ourselves and find our purpose. It is when we can afford to take risks and create the lives we desire, rather than waste it.

Time is mercurial, with an uncanny fleeting quality. So let us use our youth wisely and invest in what truly matters in the long run.

References:

[1] https://thechalkboardmag.com/goddesses-never-age-5-priceless-tips-for-growing-older-in-style

[2] https://www.drnorthrup.com/