Growing Bolder is committed to confronting the preconceived stereotypes about what an older person should and could be. The findings in The New Age of Aging study are personified in The New 65 project that Growing Bolder has created with our friends from Humana. The New 65 is a stereotype-smashing exhibit featuring portraits of men and women aged 65 and older taken by renowned portrait photographer Mike Dunn. The inspiring takeaway from Dunn’s portraits and the stories that accompany them is that life beyond 65 can be filled with passion, purpose, and possibility. We can all find our own way to love life as we age. The New 65 showcases a diverse group of men and women who, in their own way, are challenging the misconceptions of what it’s like to grow older and providing a blueprint for happy and healthy aging. No matter their age, abilities, opportunities, or challenges, The New 65 have found their own way to experience joy. They say yes to life and are unafraid to engage in new
12
G ROWING BOLDE R
December 2023 Digest
activities. They adapt to adversity. They keep moving physically and enjoy socializing. They have purpose. The most common trait shared by all is a passion and enthusiasm for life. The New 65 exhibit challenges the increasingly popular statement that “65 is the new 45” or “70 is the new 50” because, while the intent is positive, it implies that the only way to explain someone who is happy, socially engaged, and involved in their community at age 65 or 70 is to say that they look or act much younger. We don’t change the culture of aging by pretending that 65 is 45. We change it by embracing our age and celebrating the many opportunities it provides. Sixtyfive is not the new 45. Sixty-five is the new 65 and that’s good news for all. Download the free The New 65 Gallery Guide to see the portraits and read the stories that accompany them at GrowingBolder.com/TheNew65
Photos by Mike Dunn for Growing Bolder
It’s Not What You Think
