It is hard to know where to begin to address the ageist and inaccurate stereotypes in the Nov. 3 op-ed, “Maine’s elder politicians need to move along.” The condescending attitude that older adults need to step aside to visit children and grandchildren and then take naps is demeaning — and reflective of the writer’s own limited perspective on how older Maine adults function.

While there may be need for a generational shift in political leadership, it won’t come from the bizarre notion that all “elder” Mainers need to step aside to ensure effective political leadership. By focusing on only the negative effects of aging, the writer perpetuates the ageist belief that all older adults lose capacities that prevent them from fully participating in political and societal activities.

The writer may believe that he can no longer work full- or part-time, but it is important to point out that working is both a necessity and a pleasure for many older adults who continue to contribute to the Maine economy. Older adults are also active in their communities in multiple ways, including holding political office and volunteering in various organizations.

I urge the writer to contact his local Area Agency on Aging, the Maine Council on Aging, the Governor’s Cabinet on Aging or another of the many organizations working toward providing accurate information regarding the aging populations in Maine.

Frank Brooks
Portland