Aging is a global reality. Even in countries like Tanzania, where life expectancy is short, we have older people with needs that are not met.

The quality of life of a growing proportion of the world’s population is threatened by ageism, coupled with unhelpful medicalization. When children fall, we encourage them to try again; and we put in padded flooring so that they can take risk playing in the park. When old folks fall, we put them in wheelchairs. We spend more money buying toys for pets than for older family members or friends. I have been advocating for making toys for seniors, and making fun a part of their life. I have always advocated for their right to enjoy sex, to take risk, and to make “wrong” choices as citizens of liberal democracies are entitled to.

One of my recent innovations is a Play Intervention Program for Dementia (PID) based on SSLD principles. Through playing and having fun with others. We see people living with dementia becoming more active, alert, and alive. There is suggestive evidence that their stimulus-starved brains are getting what they need, and they are doing better. We keep pumping money into medical research and effective treatment is yet to come. Who is willing to invest into non-medical procedures that help to restore life and hope?

A friend of mine asked me why I am so keen. My answer is simple: I’m aging, so are you, and all of us.

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140517021458-61250084-dementia-depression-and-the-other-7ds