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NPR recently published an insightful article exploring the emotional and practical transitions that come with aging, particularly within parent-adult child relationships. Dr. Erlene Rosowsky, professor emeritus and former director of the geropsychology concentration, lent her expertise to the piece, highlighting the challenges of aging in a culture that often glorifies youth.

鈥淭here is a lot of ageism in society,鈥� Rosowsky noted, 鈥渨hich bolsters the illusion of control and avoiding it.鈥�

At 82, Rosowsky speaks from both professional and personal experience. She emphasized that aging involves more than physical changes鈥攊t can reshape one鈥檚 identity. As careers end and social circles shift, individuals may find themselves reevaluating their sense of self. Yet, Rosowsky remains optimistic: 鈥淧eople can adjust,鈥� she said. Though she no longer cross-country skis or teaches at 海角社区, she continues to research and write, embracing new ways to stay engaged.

For adult children supporting aging parents, Rosowsky offered practical guidance:

• Slow down and listen.
• Make visits meaningful. Even brief drop-ins can be intentional鈥攁sk how your parent would like to spend that time.
• Show empathy. Acknowledge their experience: 鈥淚鈥檓 seeing this might be hard for you. Is that what you鈥檙e feeling?鈥�
• Support autonomy. When helping with changes like diet, ensure they still feel in control.
• Invite storytelling. Encouraging parents to share memories fosters connection and communication.

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If you are interested in working with older adults, learn more about our concentration in Geropsychology within the Clinical Psychology, PsyD program. 

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