Science / Medicine : Stigma of Age a Burden to Elderly

Society’s pessimistic attitude toward aging is depriving many Americans of a chance to lead healthy, satisfying lives in their later years, according to a National Academy of Sciences panel.

A committee convened by the academy’s Institute of Medicine last week urged doctors to look beyond the cure of severe life-threatening diseases and find better ways to reduce mental and physical disability among the elderly.

“American culture clings to some very pessimistic assumptions about aging. Growing old is often associated with frailty, sickness and a loss of vitality. We frequently assume that older individuals are a burden to the state, their families or even to themselves,” the committee said.

“In fact, many older individuals lead satisfying lives and maintain their health well beyond society’s expectations.”

In its 332-page report, the 15-member panel said it found U.S. health policies are often written “as though our older generations are beyond help.”