Can do attitude and healthy denial

Another great report and research to share, this time Intel's "Global Ageing Experience" and I'm going to quote from it.

" People want to focus on what they CAN do, not what they CAN'T do. As one woman told us, succinctly and unambiguously: "you are sick when you are lying in bed". That is why so few people self-identify as either ill or old. Many people chose not to use canes, assistive devices in the home etc. This is not just because these devices are socially stigmatising in appearance, but because these devices reinforce a personal identity as someone who is "sick". Many people sought out challenges as ways of keeping themselves sharp -in fact it seemed that it was people's energy level, will to pursue such challenges that most correlated with self-identification as ill or old".

This suggests that denial is a natural part, and possibly healthy response to keeping going when getting older. The issue and challenge for those who provide health, care and support is how to address the need for support,which will increase with age, while understanding and respecting the overall context of self-identity.

More on this tomorrow.