The Context of Dynamic Aging (CODA) model, categorizes three person-environment
exchange processes: agency, belonging, and experiences of stress. Agency
includes all goal oriented behavior and environmental cognition, including use,
modification and creation. Belonging includes non goal-oriented cognitive and
emotional processes involving the environment. Stress is experienced when
conditions present barriers to aging. In the Occupational Therapy Practice
Framework (AOTA, 2020), environment includes the natural world and the changes humans have made to it, technology and objects, social support and relationships,
other people’s values, beliefs or norms, as well as the bureaucratic services,
systems, and policies designed to manage our worldly affairs.
Ashton Applewhite, in her book, This ChairRocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism (2016), suggests that we are all “older people in training”. Hopefully, most of us will have the opportunity to advance in chronological age with good health, finding contentment. I suggest there are ways you can intentionally modify environments to enable this to happen.
As a sensory being, you take in external data to inform thoughts and actions. You thrive
in comfort and safety. Individual central nervous systems are wired differently.
We seek out what we need for mental and physical equilibrium. Do you want vivid
colors or subtle pastels? Do you enjoy the buzz of a crowd or the quiet of a
wooded path? Do you prefer moving or stillness? Do you learn best by listening,
writing, or doing? As bodies change, so can the equilibrium point. Do the
places you frequent reflect your sensory needs?
When you engage with the world, you use tools and materials to create, maintain, and
explore. It is important to consider if their characteristics are a good match.
Is the tool comfortable to grip and sized correctly for the task? Is it
available in the space where you are working? Do you have too many choices or
not enough? Is this an opportunity to learn something new or too challenging
and calls for extra support?
Social isolation is a public health concern across all ages. Staying connected is an
important determinant of health, but with whom you choose to interact carries
weight. Is it someone you trust? Do they have both good character and
competence? Are you able to communicate effectively with them and do they
desire to help and understand? Do they hold you accountable and are they accountable
to themselves? Do values align or at least do they respect your different views
and norms? Having a place where you feel like you belong is key.
Everyone needs help sometime. You are interdependent throughout life to varying degrees. There are services available that address individual needs, but you may need
help finding the right combination. Needs are ever changing so flexibility and
creativity are key components to figure out the right fit for you. Who can help
you navigate the healthcare system? Is there a talented contractor to take care
of more complex responsibilities?
Most growth and learning happens in the space just outside of your comfort zone.
Challenge yourself to sharpen a skill, try something new, change up a routine,
or find a new friend. Recognize what is not working and proactively change what
you can. Context is everything. It informs what and how you do your activities,
enabling or interfering with living your best life. Make choices to create a
sustainable supportive place to be the best version of yourself.