In this episode of the Glowing Older podcast, host NancyGriffin interviews Corinne Auman, Ph.D., a gerontologist and author of 'Keenagers'. They discuss the importance of reshaping the narrative around aging, emphasizing the benefits and opportunities that come with growing older. Corinne introduces the concept of 'keenagers', individuals who are active and engaged in life, and highlights the need for positive language in discussions about aging. The conversation also touches on countering ageism, navigating the challenges of the sandwich generation, and the importance of life design in planning for older adulthood.

About Corinne

Corinne Auman, Ph.D., is a developmental psychologist,keynote speaker, and the founder of Choice Care Navigators, a leading consultancy dedicated to empowering seniors and their families as they navigate the complexities of aging and senior healthcare. Choice Care Navigators offers personalized guidance, family mediation, and expert education to help individuals and organizations rethink aging, plan effectively, and advocate confidently.

Prior to founding her consultancy, Dr. Auman served as a college professor for over a decade, specializing in adulthood and aging. She developed and taught courses that inspired students to explore the complexities of lifespan development and intergenerational relationships. Her academic expertise and passion for societal change laid the foundation for her current work in geriatric care management and anti-ageism advocacy.

Dr. Auman is the author of Keenagers: Telling a New Story About Aging, a book that reframes aging as a vibrant and opportunity-filled phase of life. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she has delivered transformative talks to organizations, universities, and community groups,inspiring audiences to challenge ageist narratives and create more inclusive environments for people of all ages.

Key Takeaways

• Keenagers are active, engaged older adults who defystereotypes.
• The narrative around aging is often negative and needs to change. Getting older has benefits and challenges like every other stage of life.
• Countering ageism starts with individual mindset changes. Become aware of your internal dialogue.
• People often don't identify as caregivers. Recognizing the toll caregiving can take is the first step to “wearing your own oxygen mask first.” A care manager can help you navigate the process and get everybody on the same page.
• Life design involves planning for emotional, social, and intellectual needs in older adulthood. When planning for the “keen-ager years,” it is important to design your life. Ask what gives your life meaning.
• Everyone needs a purpose or reason to get out of bed in retirement. Social connections are vital for mental and emotional well-being as we age, and learning new things forms new neural connections.