melissajlong

How everyday awareness, respectful language, and inclusive action can help build communities where age never limits dignity or opportunity Age is part of every person’s story, yet assumptions about age can shape how people are treated at work, in health care, in families, and throughout the community. These assumptions may seem harmless—a joke about being “too old,” speaking to an older adult as though they cannot make decisions, or dismissing a younger person’s ideas because they lack...

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, families often focus on planning for medical care, driving, finances, and daily support. An equally important—but frequently overlooked—conversation involves firearm safety. The BE SMART campaign provides a practical framework for discussing responsible firearm ownership and preventing unauthorized access to guns. For families navigating dementia, these principles can help guide thoughtful conversations that...

As we age, occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of life. However, dementia involves changes in memory, thinking, reasoning, and decision-making that can interfere with daily activities. While dementia affects millions of older adults worldwide, one of the greatest challenges many individuals face is not only the disease itself—but also the stigma that surrounds it. By increasing awareness, promoting early intervention, and fostering supportive communities, we can help older adults living...