Them Old Folk

 The single story of the Elderly generation is one that has evolved over time, and (as Homer Simpson says) currently puts a greater-than-ever emphasis on the depreciation of the Elderly. This single story has three prime components, their useless, helpless, and whiny nature.

As depicted in these meme's, video's and articles, our society as a whole view old people as relatively obsolete. Though they have experienced far more in life than their younger counterparts, many feel that their knowledge and expertise is outdated and unimportant in a rapidly changing society, leaving them with nothing to offer, just as the dumb and dumber clip depicts in his comment to the old lady.


On top of this useless depiction of old people is one of helplessness. The article posted illustrates the concept of the elderly "Greedy Geezers" who contribute to society in no way, yet all the while living off of the younger generation's dollar and simultaneously demanding more. This stereotypical single story fails to articulate the contribution of the elderly, specifically their contribution  wisdom. Though they may not be up to date with the latest technologies and innovations, they have a lifetime of experience to back up their valuable opinions and approaches, and have watched others fall and pick themselves up, learning from their mistakes as well.

Despite these qualifiers that allow the elderly to contribute to society in a unique and valuable way, many cling to the single story. The single story that the elderly are useless because of their limited mobility and deteriorating bodies. They are useless because they take our hard earned money and cannot do anything to support themselves. The single story of the Elderly in our society convey's the idea that they are practically dispensable.


- Haley Tharp