We need a declaration of interdependence, without an expiration date

Let’s fight for the care—for older adults and our circles of support, including you

This ‘letter to the editor’ was submitted to — but not accepted by — The New York Times for publication.

Re “How Not to Grow Old in America” (opinion, Aug. 29)

Geeta Anand dispels with “the dream that we can grow old while being self-reliant and live that way until we die” when she notes, “[t]he problem is that for most of us, itʼs a lie.” Yet, “we are all complicit in keeping this dream alive.”

America is aging — as a nation, and as individuals. Our longevity dividend needs to unite us, not divide us. Yet, the myth of independence isolates us. “Self reliant” seniors are sequestered in institutional settings; community dwelling older adults and their harried caregivers may be made equally invisible when we ignore our indivisibility.

You can (get) help, now. Visit older relatives and friends. Ask informal caregivers how you can help them help their loved ones. Search the Administration for Community Living Eldercare Locator to get help or to support services in your community. And #FightForTheCare, too.

Philip C. Marshall
South Dartmouth, Mass.
The writer is founder of Beyond Brooke — advancing elder justice

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We need a declaration of #interdependence—without an expiration date—to help #OlderAdults and our #CirclesOfSupport, including you; let’s #FightForTheCare, too #ElderJustice #Aging #EldercareLocator @AoAgov @ACLgov https://bit.ly/2m17qYz