Here at VivaValet, we have passionately spent years digging into understanding the experience of aging, whether that be aging in place, or in a form of collective independent or senior living. We have conducted extensive ethnographic research across countries to understand the dreams, aspirations, concerns and even fears of our Olders. Our original assumption, and even bias is that aging is an individual, often lonely journey. As we peel the onion on understanding of the daily life of Olders our lightning bolt realisation is that AGING IS A TEAM SPORT. 

This TEAM is diverse. First and foremost, it’s bringing together the collective experience of Olders with each other to create community and a shared experience as well as the experience they share with their multi-generational families, communities and the greater society. As Olders traverse the inevitable process of aging, they rely on a network of support that extends beyond ourselves. Family members, friends, and caregivers form the nucleus of this team, providing emotional, physical, household, transportation and sometimes financial assistance. Communities play another crucial layer of support in creating age-friendly environments, fostering social connections, and offering resources tailored to the needs of older individuals. And not to be forgotten, the role of governments and non-governmental organisations contribute by developing policies and programs that address the challenges associated with aging, such as healthcare, housing, and job creation. Moreover, advancements in medical research and technology underscore the collaborative nature of aging. Scientists, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs and innovators work together to develop solutions that enhance the quality of life for seniors, from medical treatments to assistive devices.

For us, recognising aging as a team sport reframes the narrative, emphasising the interconnectedness of individuals within a broader societal context. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that the journey of aging becomes a collective endeavour marked by compassion, understanding, and a commitment to the well-being of all team members.

We will be continuing this series of articles on aging as a team sport with other highlights we  capture on our journey of supporting Olders to live at home with self determination. Even though self-determination is key, i.e. being the pilot and decision maker in your journey, we fully acknowledge that that journey is still within a TEAM. We are proud to be a supportive member of TEAM AGING here at VivaValet.

What is your role in the team? We would love to hear your experience and highlight that role in an upcoming blog post, you can share your insights at: [email protected].