The Pruett Gerontology Center’s Aging Simulation includes activities that help students understand how older adults are sometimes perceived as stereotypes instead of valued individuals. The goal is to make students more aware of their own perceptions while working with an aging population because they have felt how a person’s demeanor can have a negative impact on their own self-worth / dignity.

This journal article recognizes the ways the healthcare industry devalues older adults, but it also suggests ways we can begin to empower them and their care partners.

Health care providers can empower the elderly by seeking specialized training and having more exposure to certain groups of older individuals.

Older adults and their care partners can also empower themselves through a little preparation before doctor visits. The NIH has prepared a guide for older adults on talking with your doctor. You can access that guide here:

https://order.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2021-06/talking-with-your-doctor.pdf