Building a Golden Future for Older Adults

Dr. Lucy Pollock, with decades of experience caring for older people, offers invaluable insights into aging in her new book, "The Golden Rule." Building on her previous work, this book explores how we can use the wisdom gained from older generations to create a more supportive society and healthcare system.

Adapting to a Changing Landscape

Dr. Pollock emphasizes the profound impact of recent events, particularly on older adults. The pandemic highlighted the vulnerability and isolation many experienced, accelerating the aging process for some due to the loss of social connection. However, it also revealed resilience and adaptability, with many older adults embracing technology to connect with loved ones and access healthcare. This technological adoption, alongside improvements in traditional communication channels with healthcare providers, offers hope for a more accessible future.

The Importance of Individualized Care

Dr. Pollock stresses the importance of truly seeing each patient as an individual. Starting with something as simple as preferred name, she emphasizes the power of understanding a person's life experiences and passions. This individualized approach becomes even more critical as the older population diversifies. Dr. Pollock highlights the importance of inclusivity and understanding that, despite our differences, we share fundamental human experiences. She also acknowledges the changing landscape of family structures, with more people aging without children. This necessitates proactive planning, such as advance care directives and power of attorney, to ensure their wishes are known and respected.

Planning for the Future, Not Simply Hoping For the Best

Dr. Pollock cautions against passive hope and encourages proactive conversations about future healthcare needs and preferences. Discussing desired treatments and those to be avoided empowers individuals and relieves the burden of guesswork from loved ones and medical professionals. This planning allows individuals to focus on enjoying life, knowing their wishes are documented.

Building a Supportive and Individualized System

Dr. Pollock envisions a future with strengthened community support systems, including decent housing, shared spaces, and intergenerational connections. She stresses the valuable contributions of older adults, highlighting their resilience and perspective, which can be invaluable to younger generations. In healthcare, she advocates for a shift in power from professionals to informed patients, enabling them to make their own decisions. With the increasing complexity of medicine, she emphasizes the need for individualized care tailored to each patient's specific needs and preferences. This personalized approach, combined with a properly funded social care system that values and supports caregivers, forms the cornerstone of Dr. Pollock's vision for a better future for older adults.

A Timeless Principle

Dr. Pollock's "golden rule" for aging with optimism echoes a timeless principle: treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself. This simple yet profound philosophy serves as a guiding light for individuals and for the development of a more compassionate and supportive society for all ages.

You can find Dr. Lucy Pollock's book The Golden Rule at all your usual book stores and online book shops.