Aging Well: The TV Revolution That’s Long Overdue

The latest Netflix series, The Boroughs, is getting attention for its bold take on aging in science fiction. Beneath its supernatural mystery lies a commentary on society’s treatment of older adults. For too long, television has relegated seniors to the sidelines, using them as comic relief or marginal characters. It’s time we reevaluate this trend and recognize the rich stories that can be told from an aging perspective.

At its core, The Boroughs features a group of senior citizens who refuse to let their golden years define them. They’re proactive heroes navigating the unknown with courage and wit, rather than passive victims waiting for their inevitable decline. This portrayal is long overdue, especially considering the growing demographic of older adults in our society.

The show’s creators, Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, have been praised for depicting seniors as complex characters rather than caricatures. By focusing on their struggles with aging, grief, and purpose, The Boroughs offers a refreshingly honest exploration of what it means to grow old. This is not just about entertainment; it’s about acknowledging the value and agency that older adults bring to our society.

The show uses Albuquerque as its backdrop, setting the story in a real-life retirement community. By doing so, Addiss and Matthews aimed to capture the beauty and isolation of the desert landscape while highlighting the importance of community among seniors. This deliberate choice speaks to the broader issue of how we design spaces for aging populations – do we prioritize seclusion or connection?

The creators’ research into actual retirement communities is evident in their attention to detail, from the architecture of The Manor to the portrayal of residents living with dementia. It’s a brave move to tackle this topic head-on, avoiding stereotypes and instead depicting these characters as heroes in their own right.

The Boroughs joins a growing list of shows pushing back against ageism on television. Series like The Kominsky Method, Grace and Frankie, and Dead To Me have demonstrated the appetite for stories centered around senior characters navigating love, friendship, loss, and reinvention. It’s time we start recognizing the talent and experience that older adults bring to our screens.

The show balances tone and genre seamlessly, weaving together dark comedy and horror to create a unique viewing experience. Beneath its surface lies a deeper commentary on how we treat older adults in society – as vulnerable subjects rather than active participants.

Throughout the series, the creators’ commitment to portraying seniors with dignity and agency is evident. By focusing on their strengths and passions, The Boroughs challenges our assumptions about aging and what it means to live life fully at any age. As these characters navigate their golden years, we’re reminded that every stage of life holds its own set of adventures – and that it’s never too late to start anew.

The success of The Boroughs will be closely watched as a barometer for the TV industry’s willingness to tackle tough subjects. Will this show mark a turning point in our treatment of older adults on screen, or will it remain an isolated example? One thing is certain – The Boroughs has set the stage for a much-needed conversation about aging and its place in our society.

As viewers watch The Boroughs unfold, we’re reminded that life remains full of adventure and connection at any age. It’s a message that resonates deeply with audiences, particularly as we confront the realities of growing older ourselves. By embracing this truth, we might just find ourselves reevaluating what it means to live well – not just for our own sake, but for the benefit of those around us.

The Boroughs gives us more than just a thrilling mystery or supernatural adventure; it’s given us a reflection of our society and a call to action to recognize the value and agency that older adults bring to our world.