Growing Old Is A Blessing | Maria Alejandro | TEDxNewYork

Summary

This heartfelt narrative reflects on the value of aging and the critical role of community and family in supporting our elderly. The speaker shares personal stories from their childhood in a small village, where family meals and wisdom passed down from elders were central to life. Emphasizing the need to care for the elderly, the script highlights the rising elderly population in New York, the challenges of isolation, and the importance of socialization and healthy living. It also discusses programs aimed at improving senior wellness, from better food access to physical activities, encouraging a positive, active approach to aging.

Takeaways

• 😀 Elders play a crucial role in family and community, offering wisdom and support through generations.
• 😀 Aging is a natural blessing, and growing older should be embraced, not feared. Living longer provides an opportunity to contribute more to society.
• 😀 In New York City, the elderly are an often-overlooked population, but they represent a growing segment, with 1.5 million people over the age of 60.
• 😀 By 2040, New York City is expected to have more elderly residents than children, highlighting the need to rethink how we care for seniors.
• 😀 Aging doesn’t mean slowing down or stopping. Seniors can live vibrant lives, continue relationships, and stay active in the community.
• 😀 Social isolation is a serious issue among the elderly, and loneliness can lead to serious mental health problems such as depression and even suicide, especially among those over 85.
• 😀 Providing opportunities for socialization is critical. Many elderly people attend meals not because they are hungry, but because they need human connection.
• 😀 Health initiatives, such as improving access to healthy food and providing exercise programs like Zumba, have a significant impact on the health and well-being of seniors.
• 😀 Elderly people in East Harlem took action to improve access to healthy food by creating a map of local vendors and working with the community to make better food choices available.
• 😀 Seniors in New York City are rediscovering their city, going on trips, and experiencing the joy of socializing with peers, like a group of high school students reliving the excitement of life.
• 😀 The importance of self-care and community engagement is essential for healthy aging. A positive mindset and lifestyle choices can help seniors live fulfilling lives well into their 80s, 90s, and beyond.

Q & A

What is the significance of the speaker’s childhood experiences in a small village?

The speaker’s childhood experiences in a small village shaped their understanding of community, intergenerational bonding, and the importance of shared meals and traditions. These experiences are used to highlight the value of family wisdom and the role elders play in nurturing and sustaining a community.

Why did the speaker’s grandmother eat her meal first before serving others?

The grandmother’s practice of eating first was a way of ensuring she took care of herself so that she could have the energy and strength to care for others. It underscores the importance of self-care, especially for caregivers, in maintaining the ability to support those around them.

How does the speaker view aging compared to societal perceptions?

The speaker views aging as a blessing, in contrast to the common societal fear of growing old. They emphasize that aging is a natural process and that living longer is an opportunity to experience life, maintain relationships, and contribute to society.

What challenges do elderly people face in urban environments like New York City?

Elderly people in New York City often face social isolation and neglect. Many are not visibly seen or acknowledged, and the fear of aging leads to a lack of resources and attention towards their needs. The speaker highlights the high suicide rates among those over 85 and calls for more awareness and care.

What role do socialization and community play in improving the well-being of the elderly?

Socialization and community engagement are crucial for the well-being of the elderly. Programs that bring seniors together, such as meals or group activities, address emotional and social needs, not just physical ones. The speaker emphasizes that many elderly people are not necessarily sick but are in desperate need of companionship and connection.

How does the speaker’s work in East Harlem address the needs of the elderly?

The speaker works at Union Cerumen in East Harlem, where they provide various programs for seniors, including meals, social activities, and health initiatives. The programs aim to improve the health and social engagement of elderly individuals, particularly in a neighborhood previously considered a food desert.

What are some of the most successful programs for the elderly mentioned in the transcript?

The most successful programs mentioned include meal-sharing events, which provide both nutrition and social connection. The speaker also highlights health programs in partnership with Mount Sinai Hospital, such as yoga and exercise classes, which help seniors stay active and socially engaged.

What is the significance of the map created by the seniors in East Harlem?

The map created by the seniors in East Harlem helped identify local vendors, restaurants, and markets that offered healthy food options. It was a community-driven initiative that empowered seniors to take control of their health and improve access to better nutrition in their neighborhood.

How has diabetes been addressed in East Harlem over the years?

Diabetes was a major issue in East Harlem, with 20% of adults affected a decade ago. Through community-driven initiatives and programs, the percentage has decreased to 13%. The speaker emphasizes that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to combat health disparities in the area.

What message does the speaker convey about the perception of aging and self-care?

The speaker encourages a shift in how we view aging, suggesting that self-care is essential for healthy aging. They advocate for individuals to take care of their bodies, maintain active social lives, and embrace aging as a natural and positive process rather than something to fear.