Before They Go

Abstract

This manuscript explores the world’s fastest-growing demographic: the elderly. We are moving into a hyper-aging era in which people are living longer — the average life expectancy increases by more than five hours a day. But older people are experiencing less social inclusion and cultural equity than ever before. I explore the implications of this dynamic by looking at the treatment of old age throughout history, the science behind the aging brain (and its capacity for creativity), and a comparative look at elder care policy in Scotland and America. I relate my experiences of growing up in nursing homes, and the life lessons learned spending time with older people in Scottish care homes.