Thirty+ years ago, as lead artists for Center for Folk and Community Art (“CFCA”), Stewart Stewart and Dena Stewart produced an extraordinary intergenerational Art project, “What It Feels Like To Grow Older“. WLRN (PBS) co-produced a Documentary that was distributed nationwide. The project was well received with extensive Media coverage – please visit the post to view the Documentary and articles.
The takeaway . . . Seniors expressed loss, loneliness, and physical aches and ailments. Youngsters were overwhelmed with schoolwork, social activities, and plans for their future.
Now, thirty+ years later, CFCA is producing
“What It Feels Like to Grow Older – Part II”
WHY?
How has aging changed during the past 30+ years?
Senior Citizens are living longer and functioning better. Advances in Health care, exercise programs and educational classes are accessible. They’ve learned from experience and have wisdom to share. However, despite gains:
• Thirty-five percent (35%) of Seniors report chronic loneliness and social isolation!
• Seniors face growing pressure from financial strains and rising costs!
• Seniors own a smartphone (61%), yet intergenerational connection has plummeted as families scatter and responsibilities overwhelm!
• Although technology is designed to make life easier for Seniors, it often has the opposite affect. It’s intimidating and as a result Seniors are unable to reap the benefits!
AND . . .
Children (those under 18) have seen advancements in technology, changes in education, improvements in health care, and evolving social and economic conditions. However, despite progress:
• Suicide rates for U.S. youth increased by 60%!
• Anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and reduced physical activity skyrocketed to 40%!
• 46% of U.S. teens experienced cyberbullying!
With today’s technology, What It Feels Like to Grow Older – Part II will provide an opportunity to transform isolation into connection, silence into storytelling, and indifference into understanding. Zoom-based conversations and art demonstrations will connect Seniors and youth.
As Senior Citizens, Baby Boomers, Gen Z, and those in between answer the question, “What does it feel like to grow older?” their honest and inspirational answers will become part of an entertaining video Documentary . . .
A Documentary that will bring about intergenerational awareness, understanding, laughs and sensitivity towards one another.
For What It Feels Like to Grow Older – Part II
to be successful . . .
Center for Folk and Community Art is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE
Will history repeat itself? With your support, What It Feels Like To Grow Older – Part II will generate extensive Media attention and positive recognition of your support. Thank you.
“Stop and Smell the Flowers”
As I approached my middle age I thought about my past; The things I did and did again. How long would it all last? I want my future to be bright; healthy and productive. So, I went straight to great grandma who’s honest and constructive. I knew she’d have the answers to alleviate my dread of what it feels like to grow old. And this is what she said:
“We are placed on this earth to experience all; To reach for the sky and get up when we fall. To love and to nurture, and many times lose. To know right from wrong and which path to choose. The “golden years” is the time to reflect and pass on old values, which youth will reject – ‘cause children have their time to learn and to hope, and seniors have wisdom that helps them to cope. But you – in the middle – with passions and powers; Stop now and enjoy the scent of the flowers. Exercise, eat right. To yourself be true. Commit to each moment and broaden your view. Make changes where needed. Accept what you face. So, when you’re a senior you’ll be one with grace.”
I promised myself I would heed her advice. I would pace what I do, and to others, be nice. So, now, almost 80, when asked how I feel I smile and say, “Aging is no big deal!”
Poem and Painting by Dena Stewart