forbes.com
Reframing Aging: A Social Gerontologist's Call for Intergenerational Collaboration
Jeanette Leardi, a social gerontologist, introduces the concept of "aging sideways," challenging the negative perception of aging and advocating for intergenerational collaboration in the workplace to leverage the skills and experience of older adults.
- What are the primary societal implications of viewing aging as a period of continued growth and potential rather than decline?
- Jeanette Leardi, a social gerontologist, challenges the conventional view of aging as solely decline, proposing an "aging sideways" approach that emphasizes the brain's continued development and the value of older workers' experience. Her work counters the negative societal narrative surrounding aging, highlighting the contributions of older adults and advocating for intergenerational collaboration.
- What are the potential future impacts of integrating Leardi's perspective on aging into workplace policies and intergenerational relationships?
- Leardi's ideas promote significant societal shifts. By reframing aging as a period of growth and possibility, she advocates for policy changes that value older workers' unique skills. This intergenerational collaboration model would lead to more productive workplaces and a more inclusive society, fostering a more positive perception of aging.
- How does Leardi's concept of "aging sideways" challenge the multi-billion dollar anti-aging industry and its impact on societal perceptions of aging?
- Leardi's concept directly opposes the anti-aging industry's narrative and the misconception of older adults as a burden. She uses the metaphor of a "silver reservoir" to illustrate the wealth of skills and wisdom older adults offer, advocating for their inclusion in workplaces and society. This challenges ageist policies and promotes a more inclusive view of aging.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing heavily favors Leardi's viewpoint. Headlines and subheadings such as "The way we think about aging is broken" and "Breaking the Anti-Aging Cycle" immediately establish a critical stance against conventional views on aging. The positive aspects of aging are emphasized throughout, creating a largely optimistic and potentially unrealistic portrayal.
Language Bias
While largely neutral in tone, the article utilizes emotionally charged language to promote Leardi's perspective. Phrases such as "bold stance," "distorts its value," "silver reservoir," and "incredible asset" convey strong positive connotations about aging and Leardi's approach. More neutral alternatives could be used to maintain objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Leardi's perspective and the benefits of aging, potentially omitting counterarguments or challenges to her claims. While acknowledging limitations of scope is mentioned in the guidelines, a more balanced view incorporating different perspectives on aging and its challenges would strengthen the analysis. There is no mention of the potential negative impacts of aging, such as health decline or financial insecurity, which could create a skewed representation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a dichotomy between the "anti-aging" industry's perspective and Leardi's, portraying them as mutually exclusive. The reality is far more nuanced, as there might be aspects of the anti-aging industry that aren't inherently negative, and people may have various motivations for engaging with it. The article doesn't explore these complexities.
Gender Bias
The article doesn't exhibit overt gender bias. The author, Jeanette Leardi, is a woman, and her perspective is central. However, the analysis lacks specific examples of gendered language or representation within the broader context of aging.
Sustainable Development Goals
By challenging ageism and promoting the value of older workers, Leardi's work indirectly contributes to poverty reduction. Older adults remaining active in the workforce can maintain their financial stability and reduce reliance on social support systems.