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adulthood . Erik Erikson , a German-born American psychologist and psychoanalyst suggested in his concept of generativity that procreation and caring / guiding children are manifestations of this psychodynamic urge . He later expanded this concept to indicate that when individuals get older , the tendency expands to caring for the community , the society and the environment . He called this “ grand- generativity ,” which essentially is one ’ s effort to leave a lasting legacy . There is ample evidence showing that one ’ s urges to give and contribute are connected to well-being . R . Ranzijn called it “ productive aging .” The sad part is that if you talk to older adults whose physical abilities are compromised , many find themselves doubting their ability to pursue their generativity goals . Support them !
We are blessed to live at a time when society has awakened to the fact that older adults , by virtue of their long lives and experiences , bring with them wisdom , values , philosophies and insight that give them a capacity to be better members of society . And , they can
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open our eyes to life ’ s mysteries . But not many , especially the youth , have discovered that . If given the chance and supported , older adults really do want to stay connected and to engage with the world . They are passionate and keen about the younger generations and they care enough to wish for a better world for them . Contrary to what they think , “ Grandpa does know what is going on ” and understands social issues and in many instances , more than the younger generation .
We need to recognize that older adults don ’ t choose to be passive , that many of them wish to be active participants in life ; that they too want to ( albeit secretly in some cases ) reach their potential . It is not an accident that Colonel Sanders launched Kentucky Fried Chicken in his 70s , or that the oldest person in the presidential office was 77 years old ( President Ronald Reagan ), or that this year ’ s oldest Super Bowl volunteer is 85 years old . Our older adult population is trying to send a strong message and it is time for us to listen !
So , let ’ s start a revolution — let ’ s push for an “ age friendly ” environment , an “ age-appreciative ” community — and pave the way for all of us to be able to “ age with an attitude ,” reach our potential , and leave a legacy that truly represents the self we wish others to know !
Sources :
Baltes , P . B ., Lindenberger , U ., & Staudinger , U . M . ( 1996 ). Lifespan theory in developmental psychology .
In R . M . Lerner ( Ed .), Theoretical models of human development . New York : Wiley .
Elsesser , S . ( 2017 ). Super Bowl ’ s oldest volunteer is 85 and still living life . Palm Beach Post
Ranzijn , R . The potential of older adults to enhance community quality of life : Links between positive
Psychology and productive aging . ( 2002 ) Ageing International , Spring ; Vol . 27 , No 2 . 30-35

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A Dining Experience to Remember

Adam
The Milias Restaurant is not only rich with history but with a menu full of local favorites plus an ever-changing list of daily specials , a full bar and a friendly staff . It ’ s warm relaxing
atmosphere is just right , whether you ' re looking for a delicious dinner , cocktails and music , a business lunch or a delicious brunch on the weekend .
Sanchez , Owner
7397 Monterey Road • Gilroy , CA 95020 • 408.337.5100 • themiliasrestaurant . com
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