What do we mean by aging as a problem?
Aging is a problem and 10.10.10 is committed to solving it. Just kidding. Not only is solving the “problem” of aging well beyond even our lofty aspirations, the real issues to address are those that are associated with aging. These problems include issues like neglect, loneliness and lost productivity.
How does it affect society?
It’s well recognized that people are living longer these days, and our lifespans are only expected to continue to increase. In fact, life expectancy is currently increasing by about 1.5 days a week, and more than half of all the people who have ever turned 80 are still alive today. However, society has been slow to adapt to an ever-older population. In this environment, our elderly population is prone to develop a sense of isolation. As a result of loneliness, people are more prone to maintaining a poor diet, a decline in physical activity, adverse habits such as smoking and illicit drug use.
Why is this a wicked problem?
As more people live longer into their non-productive years, this will become a larger economic healthcare burden on society. This, combined with a culture that encourages physical and mental decline through neglect and inattention, results in an overwhelming strain on our already overtaxed healthcare system.
Let’s keep the conversation going!
As a society, we frequently ignore and undervalue our elders, yet they are in need of our care and support medically, economically and psychologically. In many ways, these problems derive from the fact that we, as individuals, are often woefully underprepared, both financially and psychologically, for dealing with the twilight of their lives.
For better or for worse, we all hope to grow old one day. We all have a vested personal interest as well as a humanitarian interest in making the lives of this ever-growing segment of the population better. 10.10.10 believes that there are many opportunities, in fields including education, social engagement, and remote care where we can manifest tangible, positive change. Join us in working to make today’s problems- for many of us, tomorrow’s problems- the problems of yesterday. Share your thoughts, ideas, interesting articles and concepts with us all using #101010abetterage #101010health.
Problem advocate for aging as a wicked problem, Amanda Cavaleri, a Gerontechnology and Intergenerational Entrepreneur and Consultant, tries to convince the CEOs to choose to focus on the problem of aging at The Big Reveal event June 20, 2016 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. (Jacqueline Endsley Photography)
