The Conscious Aging movement, also known as Conscious Eldering, works to help older adults shift their attitudes and thinking away from self-limitation, isolation and fear towards inclusiveness, compassion and expansiveness. It holds that this time of life can be one of passion, engagement and service in the community – and it is up to each individual to determine how this might occur.
Deeper dive
Conscious aging champions believe that there is a huge difference between being “old” and being an elder, and that the latter is something urgently needed in the world. Conscious aging puts forth the idea that the senior years are a prime opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment – and that becoming a true “elder” is the apex of life’s journey.
They also believe the elder role is deliberately chosen and is one which requires physical, psychological and spiritual preparation in support of the “wholeness” of the person – that this is the hallmark of a true elder.
A major part of this work involves an examination of one’s life and an understanding of how apparently negative events often lead to positive outcomes. Inner work is also essential to relieve oneself of the burden of resentment and anger that can accumulate over a lifetime, according to the Center for Conscious Eldering.
Additional resources
- Nine practices for conscious aging from Spirituality and Health magazine
- Sage-ing International
- Conscious Aging Institute