Learning from Elders about Autonomy, Meaningfulness, and Relationships

Abstract

In this essay, we appeal to conceptual and empirical research to establish that autonomy and meaningfulness, when understood concretely and realistically, remain possible for frail and dependent elders. Contrary to ageist cultural attitudes, relationships render frailty and dependence compatible with the exercise of autonomous agency and with a life of meaning. This conclusion is important not only for the goal of supporting frail elders but also for developing a realistic understanding of the way relationships and spirituality are required for autonomy and meaning in the life of any human person, regardless of what state of dependence or independence they may be in. Each of us develops and continues to exist in radical dependence on others. Seeing the way autonomy and meaning manifest in the context of frailty and dependence thus helps us better appreciate what these crucial aspects of being human mean for all of us. In other words, we can learn important lessons about autonomy, meaningfulness, and relationship from the experience of our elders, and in particular from those who experience significant frailty and dependence.