While not commonly discussed as much as the disparity between different races, genders, and sexualities, the disparity in ages is just as relevant of an issue today. Taking care of everyone, both young and old, is important especially during this global pandemic. During Dr. Joshua Chodosh's presentation on the NYU Aging Incubator, there were two points discussed that I found to be interesting and very important to closing this gap: the Student Image Competitions, and their response to COVID-19.
The Student Image Competitions was started with the motivation of raising awareness to aging people and the aging process. In this competition, contestants submit their best image or photograph of what they think captures the elderly population and their perpesctives. Currently, the competition is in its second year. I think the idea of using photography to capture the perspective and world of the agining generation provides a lot of support and more importantly, a better sense of understanding and sympathy for them. Nowadays, the schism bewteen the opinions and viewpooints of the young and the old seems to be larger than ever, and photography may be the key to helping to bridge this gap.
This idea of bringing awareness to the elderly is extremely important, especially with the advent of COVID-19. Given the severity and widespread damage that COVID-19 has had on the global population of the elderly, now is the time to support and protect them as much as we can. Despite the difference and tensions that exists between the elderly and the new generation, during times like this, it is important to put these differences aside and look out for one another. Everyone has the right to live life as they want it, by looking out for the elderly and eachother, we can all take that step to tomorrow together.