Aging documentaries on PBS

Aging in America: Survive or Thrive, narrated by Martin Sheen, is a one-hour documentary on PBS that celebrates the promise of increased longevity while addressing crucial and unprecedented public policy challenges.  Using Dr. Robert Butler's Pulitzer Prize winning book, Why Survive? as a guide, the film explores critical topics such as ageism, healthcare, economic insecurity, and Alzheimer's disease.  

Going Your Way, is a Nine PBS documentary that focuses on the personal, medical, and spiritual issues surrounding end-of-life care, the options available, and steps that can be taken to put those wishes to practical use. The documentary’s title highlights the active role many people are now taking to ensure their death goes according to their own plans and wishes. End-of-life planning doesn’t have to be painful. We’ll learn from the experts and real people who have stories to share about preparing for life and death.  Marillac Mission Fund grantee, Oasis, provided expert consultation to the filmmakers and Dr. Brian Carpenter, co-director of the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at Washington University in St. Louis is also featured in the film. 

My Mama Joe: Hope & Help tells the story of Mama Joe--a champion for community and maternal force whose life of service was interrupted by the early onset of dementia. This film explores her story and the family experience of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. With the inclusion of scholars, and leaders in public health, My Mama Joe is an educational tool to help raise awareness around health and caregiving for older adults living with dementia.  Marillac Mission Fund grantee, Memory Care Home Solutions, hosted a screening at the Chase Park Plaza earlier this year to promote the project.