May 28, 2021
Ellyn Lem
How people think about aging and what has influenced that perspective

Ellen Lemis a professor of English and Gender Studies at UW-Milwaukee at Waukesha and her recent book Gray Matters: Finding Meaning in the Stories of Later Life looks at how people think about aging and what has influenced that perspective.  She looks at TV shows (like "Grace and Frankie"), films ("The Intern") and literature to show that these cultural texts can show us possibilities for aging but also can provide negative messages. Aside from bringing in the latest research on work/retirement, dementia, housing, intimacy and much more, she also include interviews with over 200 people who are over 65 to bring in their insights as well. The expected result is to look at aging in new and unpredictable ways, which she think is necessary since many people only associate becoming older with decline.

Sponsors