Hi everyone,

My name is Demi Sherman and I’m a 22 year old Advancing Standing Master of Social Work Student. I recently completed my BSW at Georgia State University as well. This week, I’ll be starting my internship with the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation. On the side, I am a floral designer, photographer, and avid cat dad. Personally, I have not had much professional experience in geriatrics, but is of interest to me. The concepts of “older adulthood” “later life” reminds me of my connection with my grandparents; they are very important people to me, and they inspire me to continue persevering even when situations get difficult. Another 60 years of being married is today’s generation isn’t easy to find. Both of the are in their 80s and recently got COVID after 5 years of avoiding it, since the pandemic started. Ever since 2020, they have had to be extremely cautious since they are an at-risk population. My grandmother has dealt with chronic illness since her 20s, which I can also relate to; however, she got COVID after a hospitalization for what doctors thought was a pulmonary embolism. My grandfather could not even go to the hospital to see her, as he has Parkinson’s Disease and heart issues (exposing him to pathogens is another risk).

A part of me fears getting older as I already struggle with chronic health conditions that typically get worse as you age, but I would like to come to a point in my life that I accept the cards that have been dealt to me. I see myself reaching that stage at around 55-60 years old. In the most positive scenario, older adulthood for me would look like tending to my garden, being in a safe and stable household with my spouse, seeing my future grandchildren, and continuing my crafts. My grandmother inspires me every day with how strong she is and how she has always been an advocate for herself. Although I was nervous to tell her about my gender identity when I first came out, she surprisingly accepted me. My grandfather told me he does not understand it, but he accepts me and wants me to be happy – and honestly, that’s all I could ask for. Hopefully, aging can be a fulfilling experience to me and not as much of a physical detriment as I fear. At the end of the day, it all comes down to acceptance.