What lies beneath the surface of this seemingly loving treatment, however, is a grave repercussion. Infantilization is evident when an elderly individual is perceived as no longer capable of thinking, making decisions, or comprehending their own life. This behavior is rarely driven by bad intentions. It usually stems from fear, misplaced concern, or a society that views aging as deterioration rather than experience. As a result, the harm is gradual and unfolds over time.
When others keep deciding for those over the age of 70, they don’t just lose their autonomy but who they are. Slowly but surely, their confidence is worn down.
The High Cost of Losing Your Voice
Studies have found that older adults who keep making decisions live longer and have higher quality of life. Their brain craves stimulation such as selecting, organizing, planning, working through problems, even making mistakes.
