Abstract

Ageism is viewing the old as useless typified by stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination.¹ This premise diminishes the wisdom of the old that encompasses an expert knowledge system.² Wisdom must be used to guide the younger generation that has not attained it.³ The attainment of wisdom also benefits the larger society though compromised by illnesses and maladaptive behaviours among the old.³It was highlighted by the authors that substance abuse among the elderly is often unknown, unreported and hidden by their caregivers. Cognitive decline characterised by Alzheimer’s disease and strokes represent an erosion of elderly wisdom.²A new mind set by the elderly will result in greater self-care and planning for future needs and also to resist the temptation of teasing others about their age.⁴

Keywords

ageism, wisdom, cognitive decline, pragmatism, future care, alzheimer’s, strokes, older people, stereotyping, prejudice, memory skills, spending habits, medical care, dietary needs, vacation, specialised knowledge, un-parallel ability, lead organizations, inter-generational collaboration