By Reagan Hilton
Photo Credit: Jeramie Lu
In her insightful TEDx talk, Dr. Tracey Gendron challenges the familiar phrase, “You’re only as old as you feel,” and invites us to embrace the idea that you feel the age that you are. Aging, as she explains, is not a synonym for being old—it’s a process we all go through, and it’s uniquely experienced by each person.
Dr. Gendron highlights how ageism, both external and self-directed, distorts our perceptions of aging. We internalize messages that younger is always better, which can prevent us from appreciating the growth and wisdom that come with getting older. Whether you’re 20, 40, or 60, you are not supposed to feel younger; you’re meant to feel the age that you are, with all the life experiences that come with it.
She introduces the concept of subjective age—the difference between how old we are and how old we feel—and stresses that our sense of what it means to be a certain age is shaped by misconceptions and societal biases. Dr. Gendron encourages us to shift our mindset, rejecting the idea that youth is inherently better and recognizing that aging includes both growth and decline.
Photo Credit: Jeramie Lu
A key takeaway is that aging is universal, but our experiences are individual. By understanding that aging is about more than just physical changes, we can challenge the fears and stereotypes that lead to ageism. Dr. Gendron’s message is empowering: rather than resisting aging, we should accept and appreciate the age we are right now.
Dr. Tracey Gendron, an expert in gerontology, has spent nearly 30 years studying age bias. Her work, including her book Ageism Unmasked, emphasizes the need to end age discrimination and reshape how society views growing older.
To learn more, watch Dr. Tracey Gendron’s full TEDx talk below. How can you change your mindset about aging and appreciate the age you are?
