Say It Isn't So

Breaking The Money Taboo

October 10, 2024

Hello there fellow Ageless!

Today, on World Mental Health Day, Ageless Ascent challenges you to rethink the impact of words on our well-being. Ever wondered if that well-meaning "You don't look your age!" might be doing more harm than good? We're diving into the surprising ways these common phrases affect our mental health. But that's not all – we're also tackling the intriguing concept of 'money dysmorphia' and how it's shaping financial decisions for women over 50. Need a brain boost? Discover why taking a dip might be the best thing for your cognitive health. And for those seeking to redefine their style, we're exploring how true ageless fashion starts from within. Join us as we continue to ascend beyond conventional wisdom, proving that women over 50 aren't just keeping up – we're setting the pace for a new understanding of aging.

🏋️‍♂️ Vibrant Living: Empowering Your Health and Wellness

Platitudes Are Not Always Pleasing: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." This old adage couldn't be further from the truth when it comes to language surrounding aging. Just as racial linguistics can be dehumanizing, ageist platitudes can profoundly impact older women's self-perception and mental health. These platitudes often manifest as a form of toxic positivity, which psychologists define as the belief that people should maintain a positive mindset no matter how dire or difficult a situation is. Research reveals that age-related platitudes can increase anxiety and decrease self-esteem in women over 50. Phrases like "You don't look your age!" or "50 is the new 30!" might seem complimentary, but they implicitly suggest that aging is undesirable. This linguistic deception creates unrealistic expectations and dismisses the real challenges and triumphs of aging, much like how toxic positivity invalidates genuine human emotions.

Why does this matter to our community? Many of us are navigating significant life transitions, and the language used to describe us can either empower or diminish our experiences. When we're told to "age gracefully" or that we're "still young at heart", it can feel dismissive of our struggles and accomplishments. These phrases can be humiliating and degrading. They imply that our worth diminishes with age or that we should constantly strive to embody youth. Moreover, these platitudes can lead to feelings of shame and guilt. If we don't maintain a perpetually positive outlook on aging, we may feel like we're failing or doing something wrong. This internalization of ageist language can have serious consequences. Studies have found that women who embraced their age and focused on personal growth reported higher life satisfaction and lower rates of depression compared to those who internalized ageist language.

How can we challenge these linguistic deceptions and foster a healthier mindset about aging? First, recognize and call out ageist language. Instead of "senior citizen," use "older adult." Rather than "anti-aging," promote "healthy aging" or "age-positive" attitudes. When offering support, avoid empty platitudes and instead acknowledge the complexities of aging. For instance, instead of saying "Just stay positive!" try "I'm here to listen and support you through this transition." This approach allows for a more authentic and empathetic connection. Remember, it's okay to not be okay all the time – aging comes with its unique challenges, and it's important to validate these experiences. By changing our language, we can begin to change societal perceptions of aging and create space for more genuine, supportive interactions. Let's use our voices to create a narrative that truly honors the journey of women over 50, embracing both the joys and challenges of this life stage.

​​💰 Wealth Wisdom: Securing Your Financial Future

Cashing In On Seasoned Confidence: For generations, women’s relationship with money has been shaped by disempowering societal norms, from financial exclusion to the persistent wage gap. Now, as women over 50, we face a new challenge: money dysmorphia. This phenomenon, characterized by a skewed perception of our financial situation despite contrary evidence, can lead to anxiety, poor decisions, and reluctance to embrace financial freedom. While often portrayed as a younger generation's struggle, money dysmorphia equally impacts women over 50. Our unique life experiences, changing roles, and the pressure to have it all figured out can amplify these distorted financial perceptions.

Money dysmorphia manifests in various ways: underestimating our worth, excessive worry about future security, or difficulty enjoying success. For our generation, who've weathered significant economic shifts and shattered countless glass ceilings, this mindset can be particularly pervasive. We may hoard resources, avoid financial planning, or feel guilty about self-investment. Social media's constant parade of affluence can exacerbate these feelings, even for seasoned professionals. Economic volatility, including inflation, job market uncertainties, and an unpredictable future, can intensify these distorted financial views. Even as economic indicators improve, the lingering financial stress can cloud our judgment and perpetuate money dysmorphia. These behaviors not only impact our quality of life but can lead to risky financial decisions, straining relationships and hindering our ability to fully enjoy this chapter of our lives.

Breaking free from this financial fog starts with acknowledging that your feelings, while valid, may not reflect reality. Conduct a clear-eyed assessment of your finances – you might be pleasantly surprised. Try this thought exercise: consider what you wouldn't trade for any amount of money. If you wouldn't give up your loved ones or cherished memories for millions, you're already rich in what matters most. This perspective shift can help realign your financial values. Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded women and consider consulting a financial advisor specializing in women's unique needs and goals. Most importantly, give yourself permission to appreciate your financial journey, whatever that may look like for you. Success is relative and personal—whether you're comfortably retired or still building your nest egg. Money dysmorphia can affect anyone, regardless of their bank balance. Embracing a healthy relationship with money, at any level, sets a powerful example for younger generations. Remember, rewriting our money narrative isn't just about personal growth—it's about changing the story for all women and ensuring our hard-won wisdom benefits generations to come.

🧠 Lifelong Learning And Brain Boosts

Take A Deep Dive Into Mental Clarity: Forget about misplacing your reading glasses or losing track of conversations—it's time to dive into a solution that's making waves in brain health. Swimming, that delightful activity we've enjoyed since childhood, is now proving to be a cognitive powerhouse. Recent studies show that regular swimmers display improved attention spans, enhanced memory, and reduced cognitive decline. It's like Sudoku, but infinitely more refreshing and with the added bonus of not having to squint at tiny numbers. What's more, swimming is an ideal choice as we age. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints and muscles, making it a gentle yet effective full-body workout that's kinder to our bodies than high-impact exercises. Research also shows it may help reduce blood pressure and improve bone health during our menopausal years.

So, how does paddling around in water become a brain-boosting bonanza? It's all about blood flow, happy hormones, and cross-brain communications. Swimming increases blood circulation to the brain, delivering a rush of oxygen and nutrients that make our neurons do a happy dance. This aquatic exercise promotes new brain cell growth and enhances connectivity between the brain’s hemispheres, boosting memory, overall cognition, and learning ability. Plus, the rhythmic nature of swimming and required focus create a meditative state that reduces stress and improves brain function. Swimming also triggers a flood of endorphins, nature's own "happy hormones," creating a natural high that can rival your favorite dessert (minus the calories). This endorphin boost isn't just about feeling good—it's a powerful weapon against stress and even depression, potentially outperforming some medications in lifting our moods. Who knew that channeling your inner fish could be so beneficial? And here’s a tidbit to share with the grandkids: early swimmers might hit those educational milestones faster!

Now, you might be wondering, "But what if I don't have a pool, or live in a climate where polar bears would feel at home?" Fear not, landlubbers. Many community centers and gyms offer indoor pools with senior-friendly hours and classes. For the more adventurous, open water swimming in lakes or the sea can be exhilarating—just be sure to buddy up for safety. And for those days when getting to water is impossible, try "dry land swimming" exercises. Lie on your stomach on a bench or bed, and practice the arm and leg movements of your favorite stroke. You might look a bit silly, but hey, we've earned the right to be delightfully eccentric. So, whether you're doing laps, water aerobics, or just splashing around with the grandkids, remember: you're not just staying fit, you're giving your brain a spa day. Dive in, the water's fine—and your mind will thank you!

Iris Apfel: She knew exactly who she was and shared it with the world through her fashion style.

Ageless Style: Gore Vidal once said, "Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn." This captures fashion after fifty—celebrating confidence, experience, and personal expression. As your body evolves, your style journey takes on new dimensions. The key is embracing timeless style while selectively incorporating current trends. Build your style around hero pieces—your secret weapons that make you feel self-assured. Adapt beloved pieces to current silhouettes, allowing you to nod to trends without compromising your personal signature style. That fitted blazer you love? Try pairing it with wider-leg trousers for a modern twist. Develop a signature item that becomes part of your personal brand—statement jewelry, a particular shoe style, or even a signature color. This becomes your style calling card, a powerful declaration of your unique taste. Your style is a reflection of your authentic self, unbound by conventional rules or expectations.

Embrace slow fashion, building a wardrobe that evolves gradually and reflects both your changing body and individual taste. Seek inspiration from style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Diane Keaton, or Princess Diana, using their looks as a springboard for your creativity. Focus on versatile, quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly. Incorporate your most treasured pieces into your everyday wardrobe; you're not just elevating your style—you're celebrating and empowering yourself. Remember, these cherished items aren't meant to be saved for some nebulous special occasion—you are the special occasion.

Experiment with accessories, textures, and colors to transform simple outfits into personal statements. Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Remember, dressing up is showing up, and your fashion choices can spark conversations, helping you connect with others. This connection is valuable whether your days involve board meetings, grandchildren's soccer games, or globe-trotting adventures. Your style should reflect the fabulous, experienced, and empowered woman you are. True style isn't about age or trends—it's about crafting a timeless expression of your unique self and using fashion as a tool to feel powerful at any life stage. You are the only fashion critic that matters—your style, your rules, your confidence.

🔗 The Extras - Fun Stuff We Had to Share

🌿 Sage Reflections

“ Never say never. Because limits, like fears, are often just illusion.”

-Michael Jordan

What did you think of today's newsletter?

Loved it! 😍

Liked it. 🙂

Needs improvement! 🛠️