The Power of Entrepreneurship, a.k.a. “Agepreneurship”

The Power of Entrepreneurship, a.k.a. “Agepreneurship”

by

L.T. Force, Ph.D.

Gerontologist

There is nothing like Teamwork. Teamwork, as many of us know - can be very productive. As well, Teamwork can be very frustrating and overwhelming. However, regardless of the overarching themes - Teamwork, as we all can agree - is engaging.

I have witnessed the work of entrepreneurs and founders of enterprises and start-ups. I have noticed that many of these individuals are: forward thinking, creative, solution-oriented problem solvers and energized by their mission - they appear to be surrounded by meaning and purpose - they are fully engaged - and in action.

What I have started to think about is the “therapeutic value found in Teamwork and Entrepreneurship”….there is evidence of planning, action, and implementation strategies - all very positive opportunities for cognitive training and strengthening memory skills. In addition, there are intrinsic and extrinsic awards found in the Teamwork of entrepreneurship - found in the value of bringing an idea or concept to market - a feeling of passion, success and accomplishment, as well as, the opportunity of having one’s efforts being monetized. So if we know all of this - let’s figure out ways to solve another problem.

In the field of aging and gerontology - there is an ongoing debate about the concerns of “social isolation” within the population of older adults.

Definition: “Social isolation refers to a state where an individual lacks meaningful social connections, engagement with others, and fulfilling relationships, leading to a limited and unfulfilling social network. While loneliness is the feeling of being alone or disconnected, social isolation describes a lack of social interaction and belonging. Both can have significant negative impacts on physical and mental health.” (AI overview)

Specifically, there is also a growing body of evidence showing “significant impacts on physical and mental health from social isolation”  increasing the presence of diabetes, chronic disease, depression and heighten scenarios of elder abuse. (https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/risk-factors/index.html#:~:text=Health impacts,Depression and anxiety).

So, the question is - if we know the negative impact of social isolation and the toll it is taking in the physical and psychological health of older adults - and we know the positive impact found in entrepreneurial ventures - where there is the opportunity for developing connections, enhancing creativity and promoting purpose and meaning - “Why are we not connecting the two and encouraging older adults to become more entrepreneurial?” I recommend the support and development of: “Agepreneurship” (encouraging older adults - building upon their wisdom and lived-experience to engage in teamwork and business ventures) - a natural antidote to the epidemic of social isolation. The planning and launch of a “start-up’ - exploring new frontiers  (as found in the image of the rocket) of “Agepreneurship” - where multiple meanings  - both in the arena of industry and in the arena of psychological health and growth could be found.

Now we need to begin this conversation - and by doing so - we redefine what purpose and meaning looks like for older adults - based upon the introduction of new opportunities, thereby, redefining the word “Retirement”.