I am appalled at the ageist comments I am reading.

[LogDog75]

169. As a senior citizen

The issue of ageism isn't new and every generation has gone through it. The older generation is reluctant to transfer power to the younger generation and the younger generation is impatient waiting for the older generation to move aside. The hardest thing for people to do is admit when it's time for them to step down and allow someone younger to fill their position. Part of it is in our denial that we are getting older, that society is always geared to the young (20 - 35 years old) generation(s), and not our generation, we tend to be resistant to change, we resent the threat the younger generation(s) pose to us in our jobs or position in society, and we're just too stubborn to change.

I'm not saying everyone over 65 needs to step aside or retire but we need to accept the fact we've been there, done that and now it's another generation's turn. In terms of things like politics age can be both an advantage and an hindrance. An 80 year old Congressperson may be effect but they know their remaining time in office is limited so they should recognize when it's time to call it quits and allow a future leader to follow in their footsteps. For many, their elected office or company position or standing in the community is their identity and giving that up is admitting they are no longer valued. Change is hard and it's the fear of change from what you've done for years and who you are. There comes a time in the life of every person when they have to decide they need to step down and it's one of the hardest decision they'll have to make.