Grannies and Ageism
Grannies nowadays face unfair discrimination on the basis of age, even as the life expectancy is longer than previously and senior citizens remain active much longer. Society today fears aging to such a great degree that discrimination against older people and the pressure to look and act younger is very strong. Grannies may be pressured to have face lifts and dye their hair, rather than feeling comfortable in their own skin. Older women may be expected to stay at home rather than be active in the community. Grannies, many assume, must be senile, so why should we listen to what they say?
These attitudes disparage the wisdom of the older generations. Grannies pretty often know exactly what they’re talking about, and they are worth listening too. They don’t just sit at home babbling about the past. Grannies use their knowledge and wisdom within their communities, and should be encouraged instead of mocked. A society that fears aging is a society that is not comfortable with its own values and lifestyles. Often, grannies remain active out of necessity. Today, it is difficult for parents to raise children on only one income, and two working parents can mean that grannies need to take an active role in raising the children. Other grannies work full time or part time jobs. Discrimination against older generations blocks access to the most vibrant source of experience and wisdom available. Ageism needs to be eliminated, as grannies these days cannot and will not abide by the stereotypical roles assigned to them by an ageist society afraid of time.