AARP , Diversity & The Future of Aging in the 21st Century

Over the past few weeks I spent time in Los Angeles to attend and participate (as a speaker) at a conference on Aging and Diversity in the 21st Century given by AARP. Aside from giving my own workshops on policy implications on employment and the value of technology I must admit I was truly blown away by the plethora of information provided. I came away with a new found appreciation for the work that is going on. Also, I learned a tremendous amount of what needs to be done in the diversity field as it pertains to disability. Still, disability is seen as the bastard child within the diversity field. I often feel it is still doesn't quite have a eat at the 'grown up' table. However, when consider all the aspects of diversity it is the disability community that has a role in every facet. Though I belive AARP is beginning to recognize this - a bit slower than I may like, however, moving forward in the right direction. This conference was the first step in my oponion to solidify all of the cultural elements of different communities to look at a common goal as part of a human expierence. This I believe is critical & also serves as a template to serve disability issues.