Creating an Understanding of the Richness and Diversity of Aging

For years, media managers have clung to the erroneous notion that advertising sales are primarily driven by millennials, holding the mistaken belief that older consumers on fixed incomes are less receptive to purchasing new products. As a result, these media outlets — whether print or digital, broadcast, or podcast — have often provided insufficient coverage on the diversity of aging and issues relevant to our aging population. But age bias still exists in some newspapers, electronic media and the internet. 

Yet, with the undeniable graying of America, the increasing number of older adults including Boomers and their older siblings in the Silent Generation with the first Gen Xers now reaching their 60s, and they continue to rely on reading newspapers to better understand the complex and evolving landscape of aging. 

But recent shifts have occurred as reporters and editors, many of whom are themselves 

(or have been) midlife caregivers for aging parents or in-laws, including this writer, have uncovered the vast, under reported stories on aging. Personal experiences have given them the insight and understanding necessary to address these topics with greater depth and balance.

For over 44 years, I have had the joy and responsibility of writing about aging — about the issues that shape our lives as we grow older and about the opportunities that come with age. Like many of my fellow “age beat” writers and reporters, I have the distinct perspective of being over 70 years old myself. This vantage point informs not just how I write, but what I write, because I know firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with aging.

Over the years, I have had the honor of sharing the stories of so many Rhode Islanders age 50 and over who have shared their wisdom, resilience, and humor. Their experiences may be local, but the lessons are universal. Whether writing about policy debates or spiritual reflection, I have aimed to offer a balanced perspective—one that recognizes both the challenges and the immense potential that come with aging.  Through my writings I strive to stand among the more well-informed journalists covering the age beat, who know and write better, and are better able to inform readers about the Longevity Revolution, with all of its challenges and implications, both positive and challenging.

Through my work, whether published in the Pawtucket Times, the Woonsocket Call, or compiled in my books, Taking Charge Volumes 1, 2, and now 3 in the works, I have sought to offer readers practical advice for navigating the later stages of life. From care giving and retirement planning to end-of-life decisions and everything in between, my goal has always been to empower individuals to take control of their own aging journey. Aging is not something to be feared, but rather embraced as an opportunity to live more fully.

Books Give Tips on Aging Boldy and the Diversity of Aging

I am pleased to announce that Vol. 3, like the two previous ones (Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly and Taking Charge: Vol. 2, More Stories on Aging Boldly), will shortly be published by West Warwick-based Stillwater River Publications. In these volumes, I have compiled a selection of my most impactful weekly commentaries, spanning a variety of aging-related subjects. Each article, listing the date it was published, drawn from my work published in the Pawtucket Times and Woonsocket Call (now merged into one daily newspaper, the Blackstone Valley Call & Times), provides practical insights and advice for those over age 50.

Although some of the content may reflect aging issues, research results, study and poll findings, and legislative policy debates from years past, the insights still remain relevant and informative. The stories, while often localized to Rhode Island, contain universal truths applicable across the nation. They reflect the experiences of individuals over 50 who share their wisdom on various aspects of aging, from health and finances to relationships and personal fulfillment.

As we continue to advance in age, the opportunities to enhance our lives are more abundant and accessible than ever before. My weekly commentaries that you read in this daily newspaper aims to empower readers to take charge of their aging process, embracing the challenges and opportunities it presents with confidence and grace.

Through my  editorial “bully pulpit” in my weekly commentaries and continued efforts, I hope to continue contributing to a greater understanding and appreciation of the richness and diversity of aging. 

To the seniors of Rhode Island, you are my inspiration. Every story I’ve written, every article I’ve published, has been with you in mind. I hope that, through my writing, I’ve been able to shed some light on the issues that matter most to you and to provide some guidance along the way.

I am grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to this important conversation. But my work is far from over. The aging population is growing, and with it, the need for thoughtful, informed journalism that addresses the complexities of aging.

I thank my readers for joining me on this journey. May the insights in my commentaries inspire and support you as you navigate your own path to a fulfilling and vibrant later life.

Herb Weiss, LRI -12, is a Pawtucket-based writer who has covered aging, health care and medical issues for over 44 years. To purchase his books, Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly and a sequel, compiling weekly published articles, or to be updated on the release of Vol. 3, go herbweiss.com.