92. The Pillars of Successful and Happy Aging with Aging Expert Jennifer DiVita

Be happier, live longer and embrace life to its fullest in your third act with these simple lifestyle hacks from certified gerontologist and aging expert, Jennifer DiVita. She talks to Diane about the essential pillars of successful and joyful aging, offering invaluable insights and tools for navigating the journey of growing older with grace and vitality.Overcoming Ageism: A Personal JourneyJennifer opens up about her own journey into gerontology, recounting the ageism she encountered along the way. From being deemed "too old" for television at 31 to being told she was "too young" to study gerontology, her experiences highlight the pervasive nature of age-related stereotypes.The Pillars of Successful AgingDiane and Jennifer discuss the foundational pillars of successful aging, including:Defying Societal Expectations: Ignoring society's arbitrary limitations on age and pursuing your passions unabashedly.The Power of Laughter: Embracing humor as a catalyst for resilience and joy, even in the face of adversity.Social Connection: Combating isolation by nurturing meaningful relationships and staying engaged with diverse communities.Mental Stimulation: Keeping the mind sharp through lifelong learning and cognitive challenges.Combating Ageism in Its Many FormsThey address the three different manifestations of ageism:InternalInterpersonalInstitutional  Jennifer underscores the importance of cultivating a positive perception of aging, citing research that links it to increased longevity.Super Seniors: Defying Age ExpectationsHighlighting remarkable individuals who defy age stereotypes, Diane and Jennifer celebrate the accomplishments of "super seniors" like Clint Eastwood, Rosemary Smith, and Harriet Thompson. These trailblazers serve as inspiration for living life to the fullest at any age.Embracing New ExperiencesDiane shares her personal journey of learning to cook during cancer treatment, emphasizing the transformative power of trying new things. Jennifer advocates for embracing novelty and seizing every opportunity for growth and fulfillment.Redefining Time and HappinessReflecting on the changing perception of time with age, Diane and Jennifer discuss the concept of a midlife crisis and the pursuit of happiness across different stages of life. Despite societal narratives, they affirm that each moment is precious and ripe with potential.Jennifer’s DetailsWebsite: www.jenniferdivita.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.divita/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferDiVitaBooks Book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/not-your-shoe-size-a-novel-about-acting-your-age-or-not-jennifer-divita/20198678?ean=9798988126409 Connect with DianeFacebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube: @thedianegilman  Website: thedianegilman.com