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NEXT AGE

Older adults are the fastest growing segment of Tennessee's population and will soon constitute one-fifth of the state’s total population. Consider that the first wave of GenerationX will turn 60 this year, joining the many Baby Boomers already well into retirement years. This demographic trend will impact many institutions, services and communities — and require approaches that are “age friendly.” That starts with telling and elevating a more complete story of aging, delving into a growing movement to “reframe aging” – to change language, inform perceptions and dispel fears about growing old.

Our monthly series NEXT AGE on This is Nashville will feature conversations about longevity and reframing aging in a way that benefits all of us, no matter where we are in life.

Series producer and host LaTonya Turner is an editor and afternoon host at WPLN News. Before joining the station, she had an accomplished career as an award-winning television journalist, documentary producer and TV host.

Our show is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration.

Hope and help for caregivers in Middle Tennessee

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There’s a caregiving crisis in America, and taking care of our parents is just one part of the struggle.

Lifelong Learning: NEXT AGE episode 5

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It’s back-to-school time — and that includes older adults! An increasing number of people 50 and older are actively learning new things (55% of Americans age 45 and older, according to AARP surveys).

Hospice care: learning what you need to know when the time comes in NEXT AGE episode 4

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There is no more tender time than the months, weeks and days before a loved one’s passing. More likely than not, hospice care is going to be involved. Still, many people don’t fully understand what hospice looks like. So today we’re breaking down what you need to know so you’ll be a little more prepared […]

To many older adults, there’s no place like home — but repairs and safety can get in the way

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Staying put in their own homes, according to AARP, is what most adults 50+ say they want as they age. However, the costs of home maintenance, property taxes and safety concerns can close the door on that idea. A local non-profit is stepping in to help make homes age-friendly for older residents.

Money moves for longevity is focus of NEXT AGE episode 3

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Do you want to live to 100 or longer?  It’s possible and could be commonplace within the next couple of decades. The new longevity requires serious money moves to have financial security for a long lifespan.

Who Cares? Family caregivers share stories and struggles in NEXT AGE episode 2

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Let’s talk about the C-word: Caregiving. In this episode, we continue our monthly series, NEXT AGE, with stories of people who are caring for an older adult relative. 

Older adults find community, activity and longevity at Fifty Forward

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Our daily show, This is Nashville, is exploring longevity and how aging is being reframed in a new series once a month, called NEXT AGE.

Fearless aging discussion kicks off NEXT AGE: a new series about growing older in the 21st century

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No matter what you think about aging, one thing is for sure: EVERYbody’s doing it!

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