Flip the Script on Aging

Every May, the Administration for Community Living, leads the nationwide observance of Older Americans Month. The 2025 theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. We will challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. This year, we honor older adults’ contributions, explore the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as we age, and highlight the opportunities for purpose, exploration, and connection that come with aging.

In reading an article by Joseph Claussen, titled “Flipping the Script on Aging” he recommends that we look at aging like a game where we level up every year. We can reframe our mindsets and focus on the positive aspects of growing older, such as maintaining a healthy diet and exercising routinely, which can help us age gracefully. We can also work to deepen our connections with family and friends and build new relationships. We should strive to communicate and resolve conflicts more effectively, and show compassion and empathy.

Claussen wrote, “By investing in our relationships, we can create a support network that helps us navigate life’s challenges and enriches our daily lives… We can identify our values and priorities, set meaningful goals, and work towards them with intention and purpose… We can embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and self improvement… we need to celebrate our accomplishments, no matter how small, and look for ways to build on them.”

Below are some practical ways to flip the script on aging:

• Set goals for personal growth and celebrate when you achieve them;
• Take on new challenges, whether it’s learning a new skill or trying a new hobby;
• Connect with loved ones regularly and invest in your relationships;
• Practice self-care and prioritize your physical and emotional well-being;
• Embrace your wisdom and share it with others.

LifeCare Alliance of Central Ohio suggests another way to “Flip the Script” is by “Starting the Conversation,” to explore intergenerational differences and promote deep appreciation of others.

How to bring people together for meaningful conversations:

• Reach out to your local senior center or local union and see if you can organize an afternoon of story sharing.
• Contact your local union and see if they would like to host a “Senior Day.”
• Visit an assisted living center and chat with residents in the common areas.
• Volunteer to deliver Meals-on-Wheels with a young person and connect with the seniors you serve.
• Share stories of older adults who aged gracefully following their retirement.

Ways to break the ice:

• What was the happiest moment of your life?
• Who has been the biggest influence on your life and what lessons did you learn from them?
• What are you proudest of in your life – and why?
• What was it like where you grew up?
• What stories did your parents share with you about their childhood or upbringing? How did that make you feel?

By flipping the script on aging, we can improve our quality of life and promote a positive outlook on aging. Think of aging in terms of how it could enhance creativity, new experiences, and opportunities to contribute to or nd a new purpose.

Federal Income Tax Liability with Repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Off set (GPO)

With the repeal of the WEP/GPO penalty, many of you will notice an increase in your Social Security payments. The increased benefits could push you into a higher tax bracket with potential tax implications. The lumpsum retroactive payment could also push your income higher, leading to greater tax liability. Those impacted will have less than a year before these increased benefits impact your tax liabilities, meaning that benefits paid in 2025 will appear on the 2025 SSA-1099 form. Make sure you follow-up with your federal income tax preparer this year for your income tax liability going forward. ■