Every year, Leading Age Georgia compiles profiles of individuals from all socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds who exemplify positive aging. Despite any physical limitations or other age-related changes, these inspiring individuals have all continued to provide valuable contributions to their communities.
This year, Leading Age Georgia had the opportunity to highlight several such profiles at a one-day special exhibition at the Center for Civil and Human Rights located in downtown Atlanta. Leading Age generously invited ARC to join the event to share information about Empowerline and our Reimagine Aging Civic Dinner conversation with attendees.
Before entering the exhibition, attendees completed the phrase “As I age…” by either writing on a display canvas or a notecard. People then entered the gallery room and viewed the profile displays at their leisure.
Overhead, audio recordings of interview snippets from several of the profiled individuals played on a loop. The interviews were done through StoryCorps, so the full recordings will be archived at the Library of Congress.
At the exit of the exhibit, attendees were again asked to complete the phrase “As I age…”. Many remarked that viewing the profiles of the older people highlighted in the exhibition shifted their outlook on aging.
After perusing these comments, it became apparent that many attendees realized that as we age, we build up experiences, knowledge, and connections. The individuals profiled served as examples of how aging can provide us with extended opportunities to share this wisdom with others.