If there is something that affects us all equally and that is only a matter of time, it is the fact of getting older. It is a progressive and natural process that completes the life cycle of any person. Mark Berger Chicago, CEO of Villa Healthcare indicates that changes in the elderly are part of a stage that the elderly and their environment must learn to face actively, with encouragement and enthusiasm. A moment in which understanding and empathy play a fundamental role. The elderly: changes that go from the inside out Since we are born we are in constant evolution. The changes start out very fast, later they become more distant in time and at the end of the life cycle they accelerate again. It is a phenomenon intrinsic to the nature of the human being and represents a remarkable transformation from a physical, psychological and emotional point of view. “Around the age of 65, a new stage of life begins that is defined by changes in the elderly. Although these do not manifest themselves in the same way and with the same intensity in all people, there are certain common features that make us think of a fairly similar transformation process in all individuals,” says Mark Berger Chicago, CEO of Villa Healthcare. Social needs remain: affection, participation and usefulness If there is something that does not modify the fact of gaining years, it is the value of the individual in society. Mark Berger Chicago indicates that older people continue to have the need to relate to their environment, to feel active and to make decisions for themselves. While many of their capacities are being diminished, it is the responsibility of caregivers and family members to provide them with their space and make them feel useful. Affection, empathy and the promotion of autonomy are essential aspects to face the elderly with enthusiasm, health and a positive attitude. The change of role in the community, in the family or in the workplace (retirement) cannot mean the loss of expectations. This process of transformation is much healthier when it develops from the perspective of integration and participation, not from isolation and loneliness. In this podcast, Mark Berger Chicago will give you some tips for assimilating aging and dealing with changes in the elderly with empathy.