Where are All the Seniors?

Question: Where are All the Seniors?

A got an e-mail from a young student the other day who had the following observation: "If there are more older people than ever before, where are they?" This got me thinking -- I can't remember the last time I saw (or noticed?) an older person that I wasn't related to in some ways.

Answer: The answer to this question is: I'm not sure. One factor certainly has to be everyone's schedule. Working folks are in the work environment and don't run across older persons very often (unless this is part of the job) and kids are in school all day. In the evenings and on the weekends, older people tend to stay home, away from the crowds (I am guessing about this). Mostly, older people (the ones who are retired), go out while the rest of us are at school or work. We just don't see them that often. Of course, another factor is the fact that we probably don't noticed older people when we do see them. They might just blend in a bit too much.

Whatever the reason, the end result is that older people and younger people just aren't seeming to mix very much. This makes it harder and harder for young people to have an understanding of older people. It is also a shame because many older people would be excellent role models and mentors for younger people. It almost feels like there is a growing gap between young and old, even as our country ages, because of the isolation of both groups.

So I am suggesting two challenges, one for older people and one for younger people. Older people should try to get out and mix more. Volunteering at school or for weekend activities would be a great way to get some exposure to kids. Meanwhile, younger people should take notice of older people and try to engage them in conversation.

The good news is that older people will benefit (even their health could benefit) from engaging in working with younger people while younger people will gain perspective and an understanding of their world.

If you are an older person looking to get more involved try Experience Corps, an organization that helps people find meaningful work "in the second half of life."