In celebration of May as Older Americans Month, we’re taking a deeper look at the multifaceted realm of aging: people, programs, and plans for the future. The first in the series focuses on what millennials (the generation following Gen X—with birthdates from the early 80s to the early aughts) need to know about aging. As it becomes harder to parse aging issues from national issues, more and more young people are taking a stake in the challenges facing older adults as shared challenges of navigating American life.
When someone says “sign here, here, and here” and doesn't explain your choices and doesn't let you read anything, do you feel like you’re making an individualized plan for your long term health care or signing for a package delivery?
When a nursing home loses its certification, who makes the decision on where the residents move? Is there a law in place protecting their right to say goodbye to friends and gather their personal belongings before they’re transferred to a new facility?
Who should be allowed in on your health care planning meetings? Just you and the health plan? Your adult child? Your partner? Your long-time health aide?