Aging, Ageism, and Ideals

Well, it appears The New York Times Crossword Puzzle has been at it again.

A couple of days ago, as I was trying to complete an archived puzzle from February 2021, I came across the clue for 51 Across: a six-letter word for "Things people lose as they grow older."

I must admit, at first it stumped me. And then, when the answer was revealed as I completed more and more of the puzzle, I went from being stumped to being stunned.

The word in question: IDEALS.

REALLY?!?!?

WHO THINKS THIS STUFF UP?!?!? AND WHAT DOES IT EVEN MEAN?!?!?

It's true that many older adults can experience some loss as they age into their 60's, 70's, 80's, and beyond--for instance, their eyesight, hearing, memory, balance, or even friends and loved ones. However, their IDEALS is NOT on that list.

In fact, I would argue just the opposite: that many older adults become even more committed to their ideals as they grow older, if for no other reason than they realize the time to bring them to fruition is growing shorter. Moreover, the wisdom, perspective, and experience older adults have cultivated over time perhaps even better equips them to advocate more effectively for what they believe in--and to affect change accordingly.

The truth is IDEALS HAVE NO EXPIRATION DATE. While they may change somewhat over time--change that can be attributed to a variety of factors, none of which is age--people, in general, and older adults, in particular, simply do not lose sight of what they believe in. They do not age out of caring about the world around them.

As for me, one of my ideals is putting an end to ageism--in crossword puzzles and elsewhere. Now, who's with me???