It's an Age Thing: 13-Part TV Series
AgeVenture News Service 06-16-03
IT’S AN AGE THING!, a new 13-part television series that takes a comprehensive and
common-sense approach to the challenges of aging, will premiere in
June 2003 nationally on public television stations (check local listings).
Hosted by NPR’s Susan Stamberg, each half-hour episode was taped on location and
focuses on a particular life issue, from housing to retirement to driving.
The series features interviews with everyday seniors about the good choices they have
made in setting the direction of their own lives, and with experts who offer commentary
and insights on various concerns of aging.
IT’S AN AGE THING! is a co-production of WMHT, public broadcasting that serves
New York's Capital Region and beyond, and Albany Guardian Society. A comprehensive
companion Web site, www.itsanagething.org, will further explore the issues of aging
gracefully that are examined in the 13-episode series. “Everyone wants to stay
independent as long as possible,” said Richard Iannello, series’ co-producer and writer.
“With this new series, we show that while
aging imposes limitations on all of us to varying degrees, we can improve our enjoyment
of life as mature adults by taking charge of the decision-making
process as soon as possible.”
IT’S AN AGE THING! introduces viewers to dozens of older Americans who relate their personal experiences frankly, hopefully, and even with
light-hearted humor. By offering themselves as examples, they share their strategies in approachable and practical ways.
For example: when one elderly gentleman knew he could no longer drive, he and his nephew worked out a
plan for using the proceeds from the
sale of his car to set up an interest bearing account for access by a local taxi service. Whenever he needs transportation, he simply calls the cab company and
the fare is debited from the account.
Interspersed with the personal anecdotes are the insights and commentary of experts who help seniors with aging issues. The result is a wealth of
solid, user-friendly advice that benefits everyone, no matter how old.
IT’S AN AGE THING! demonstrates conclusively that there have never been more opportunities to manage the aging process than today.
Health, nutrition, exercise, retirement communities, continuing education, multi-generational housing, and partial rather than full retirement are among the many
viable alternatives discussed by seniors in the show. Our increasing knowledge about the aging process allows more people than ever before to stay active and
fulfilled.
One key to successful aging is planning for a future that encompasses both positive thinking and to help deal with difficult situations often faced
by seniors. As the seniors featured in the series reveal, by making the right choices even the most challenging problems can be effectively navigated.
As the number of baby boomers increases, putting a strain on healthcare and long-term care resources, empowering seniors with a positive attitude and
information makes sense financially. Staying healthy and mobile for as long as possible is good not only for the individual, but for our society as well.
IT’S AN AGE THING! is made possible by grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Cohoes Savings
Foundation. Richard Iannello, co-producer and writer, is also executive director of Albany Guardian Society and has spent his entire professional career
working with and caring for the elderly. Stephen Honeybill is senior producer for the series, and Marianne Potter is executive producer.
The series distributor is American Public Television (APT). Located in Boston, APT is a major source of programming for the nation's public
television stations. More information about programs and services is available on the Web at www.aptvs.org.
Image credit: American Public Television, Boston, MA.
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Dr. Demko reports on lifestyle issues and trends in Aging America. Submit comments to:
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