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10.29.25 | Arts & Culture

The Grace in Grit: A Reflection on Resilient Living

In the language of vibrant living, grittiness is not about being hard or unyielding. It’s about staying soft enough to keep growing, steady enough to keep moving, and brave enough to keep beginning again. At Sage Collective®, we believe that living vibrantly isn’t about avoiding friction — it’s about finding meaning and movement within it.

Redefining Grit
Psychologist Angela Duckworth, a University of Pennsylvania professor and 2013 MacArthur “Genius Grant” recipient, popularized the concept of grit through her groundbreaking research and her 2016 book, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Her studies explored why success so often depends not on raw talent, but on sustained effort — on the ability to stay committed to long-term goals even in the face of difficulty.

But within the context of aging and community, grit takes on a more soulful dimension. It’s less about ambition and achievement, and more about endurance — the quiet, daily persistence that allows us to continue living with purpose, even when life’s terrain becomes steep or uncertain.

For older adults, grit can mean returning to watercolor painting after years away from a studio, walking daily despite arthritis, or learning to navigate new technology to stay connected with family. These acts may seem ordinary, but they are, in truth, acts of courage — small, repeated commitments to staying engaged in life.

Grit and Grace
At Sage Collective®, we see grit and grace as twin forces that shape the experience of vibrant living. Grace provides the softness that tempers determination; grit gives structure to hope. Together, they allow us to persist with compassion — toward ourselves and others.

In our community, we often see how these qualities intertwine: when someone finds new purpose through volunteering, returns to a beloved craft after loss, or steps back into connection after a season of solitude. These moments reveal the essence of grit — not stoicism, but re-engagement. Not merely endurance, but renewal.

The Everyday Practice of Grit
Grittiness can also be cultivated through daily habits that reinforce purpose and connection. In community gardens, residents learn patience with the soil and the seasons. In movement or yoga classes, they rediscover balance through repetition and release. In book clubs or creative workshops, they flex mental and emotional resilience — staying open to new ideas, new people, and new ways of seeing.

Grit doesn’t always roar. Sometimes, it whispers — “keep going.” It shows up in consistency, in curiosity, in the willingness to show up for oneself and for community, even on days when energy feels low. It’s persistence paired with perspective, a refusal to let difficulty define the horizon.

The Texture of Vibrant Living
Vibrancy, after all, isn’t a glossy state of perpetual joy. It’s a textured one — full of contrast, light and shadow, rest and renewal. Grittiness gives that texture its depth. It helps transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and creativity. It keeps us engaged with life’s dynamic rhythms, and reminds us that living fully means participating in the full spectrum of experience — the easy and the hard, the known and the unknown.

At Sage Collective®, we often say that vibrant living is a choice. Grit makes that choice sustainable. It allows us to meet the moment — whatever it brings — with heart, humor, and faith in our own capacity to adapt and thrive.

Closing Thought
Grit, then, is not about hardening. It’s about fortifying — strengthening our inner life so that we can continue to live outwardly with vibrancy, curiosity, and joy. It is the quiet strength behind every act of creative resilience, every step toward connection, every renewed commitment to live life fully — no matter our age.

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10.23.25 | Lifestyle

Growing Into What You Love: How Interests Evolve at Every Age

At Sage Collective®, we often say that vibrant living isn’t about staying busy—it’s about staying engaged. The difference lies in depth. True engagement grows when curiosity meets purpose, when we give time and attention to what sparks our minds and hearts. This idea aligns beautifully with what psychologists call the growth theory of interests—the belief that our passions aren’t simply discovered; they’re developed over time.

From “finding” to “cultivating”
For many years, people were encouraged to “find their passion,” as if it were a treasure waiting to be unearthed. But research led by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck and her colleagues shows that interests are not fixed traits—they grow through experience. The growth theory of interests suggests that we develop enthusiasm for activities by exploring them, practicing them, and allowing ourselves to be challenged.

This shift in mindset is liberating—especially for older adults. It reminds us that our interests don’t have an expiration date. We can fall in love with new ideas, art forms, technologies, and communities at any stage of life. In fact, later life often offers the freedom and perspective to explore them more deeply than ever before.

The courage to begin again
Vibrant living, at its core, is about embracing growth—physically, mentally, emotionally, and creatively. The growth theory of interests gives us permission to begin again, to approach new hobbies or learning experiences not with pressure to “be good” right away, but with openness to become. Whether it’s learning a new language, picking up watercolor painting, joining a local choir, or experimenting with virtual reality travel, the key is to start small and stay curious.

That first step might feel uncertain—but that’s exactly where growth begins. Each moment of discovery strengthens the neural pathways that make us feel alive and connected to the world around us.

Interest as a lifelong practice
Developing new interests also nurtures well-being in ways that align closely with Sage Collective®’s vision of vibrant living. Research shows that engaging in personally meaningful activities can improve mood, sharpen cognition, and increase longevity. Interests bring structure to our days, connection to our communities, and energy to our spirits.

Consider this: an interest in gardening can become a meditation on patience and renewal. A fascination with local history can blossom into volunteering at a museum. Curiosity about health and movement might evolve into a shared yoga practice. Each interest, no matter how modest at first, holds the potential to expand our sense of meaning and belonging.

A vibrant future of our own making
The growth theory of interests reminds us that becoming ourselves is a lifelong project. Passion is not something we outgrow—it’s something we continue to grow into. At Sage Collective®, we believe that each new curiosity is an invitation to vitality.

So instead of asking, “What am I passionate about?” try asking, “What am I willing to explore?”

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10.16.25 | Community

Embracing Wabi-Sabi: Lessons in Vibrant Living

In a world that often celebrates perfection, speed, and constant growth, the Japanese tradition of wabi-sabi offers a refreshing alternative. Rooted in Zen philosophy, wabi-sabi is the art of finding beauty in imperfection, transience, and simplicity. It’s a way of seeing the world that celebrates authenticity over polish, and presence over perfection.

At Sage Collective®, we see wabi-sabi as deeply aligned with our vision of vibrant living. By embracing its principles, we invite more acceptance, mindfulness, and joy into daily life—qualities that enrich our experience as we grow older.

What is Wabi-Sabi?
Wabi-sabi can be understood as both an aesthetic and a philosophy. It finds beauty in the natural cycle of growth and decay, in weathered wood, uneven pottery, or the golden repair lines of kintsugi ceramics. More than just a visual style, it’s an attitude of humility and appreciation, reminding us that life is always in motion, always changing.

Lessons for Vibrant Living

  • Embrace Imperfection. Wabi-sabi teaches us that flaws don’t detract from beauty—they add depth and character. The same is true in our lives. Our wrinkles, our stories, and even our missteps are part of what makes us whole. Accepting imperfection allows us to release unrealistic standards and embrace self-compassion.
  • Honor Transience. Autumn leaves falling, flowers wilting, daylight fading—wabi-sabi reminds us to appreciate the fleeting nature of life. For older adults, this perspective can be liberating, encouraging us to live in the present moment and savor its richness without clinging to permanence.
  • Find Joy in Simplicity. Wabi-sabi encourages us to pare back to what matters most. Simplicity is not about lack, but about clarity—making space for meaningful relationships, mindful practices, and daily rituals that nourish us.
  • See Beauty in the Everyday. From a crack in a well-loved teacup to the quiet of a morning walk, wabi-sabi teaches us that beauty doesn’t have to be grand or flawless. It’s often found in the ordinary, waiting for us to notice.

A Wabi-Sabi Practice
Cultivating wabi-sabi in daily life doesn’t require drastic changes. Instead, it’s about small shifts in perception and practice:

  • Pause to notice: Take a few minutes each day to appreciate something simple—a breeze, a stone, a handwritten note.
  • Practice gratitude: Write down imperfections you’re thankful for—quirks, scars, or even challenges that shaped you.
  • Simplify your space: Surround yourself with items that bring meaning, even if they’re weathered or worn.
  • Celebrate change: Create seasonal rituals that honor life’s natural cycles.

Living Vibrantly, the Wabi-Sabi Way
At its heart, wabi-sabi invites us to live more gently—with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us. By embracing imperfection, honoring transience, and finding beauty in the everyday, we open ourselves to a fuller, more vibrant life.

This perspective resonates with Sage Collective®’s belief in living deeply and joyfully at every age. For when we learn to see through the lens of wabi-sabi, we discover that life’s cracks and changes are not shortcomings, but the very places where beauty—and wisdom—shine through.

 

 

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10.08.25 | Fitness & Activity

Everyday Awe: Finding Wonder in Autumn

As the season shifts, autumn brings with it a sense of transformation—crisp mornings, golden light, and leaves that burst into fiery hues before falling softly to the earth. For many of us, these subtle but profound changes spark something deeper: a feeling of awe. And in embracing awe, we invite ourselves into a more mindful, joyful way of living.

At Sage Collective®, we believe that awe isn’t reserved for rare, extraordinary experiences. It can be found in everyday moments, waiting quietly for us to notice. This perspective aligns with our vision of vibrant living, where wonder, creativity, and reflection are woven into the fabric of daily life.

The Science of Awe
Research has shown that experiencing awe—even in small, everyday doses—can improve mood, lower stress, and even enhance physical health. Psychologists describe awe as a state that expands our sense of perspective, helping us feel more connected to the world around us. For older adults, awe is more than a fleeting emotion—it’s a tool for cultivating resilience, gratitude, and vitality.

Everyday Invitations to Awe
Autumn offers countless ways to experience awe without having to travel far:

  • Nature’s Palette: Watch the leaves shift from green to amber to crimson, and notice the textures and patterns in their details.
  • Crisp Air: Step outside on a brisk morning, take a deep breath, and feel the vitality of the season.
  • Harvest Season: From farmer’s markets to your own kitchen, celebrate the abundance of apples, squash, and spices that mark fall’s arrival.
  • Golden Hour Walks: Wander at dusk, when the light is warm and fleeting, and notice how the world transforms around you.

Each of these experiences invites us to pause, slow down, and reconnect—with ourselves, with others, and with the beauty of the natural world.

Awe as a Daily Practice
Awe doesn’t have to be accidental. It can be cultivated intentionally through simple habits:

  • Keep an Awe Journal: Jot down one moment of wonder each day.
  • Practice Mindful Observation: Choose one thing—a tree, a sunset, even a teacup—and look at it closely, as if for the first time.
    Share Awe with Others: Call a friend or family member to tell them about something that amazed you. In sharing, the wonder grows.

Living Vibrantly with Awe
At Sage Collective®, we recognize that vibrant living comes from engaging fully with the present moment and finding joy in life’s transitions. Autumn is a reminder that change itself can be beautiful—and awe is the lens through which we see that beauty more clearly.

So this fall, let us challenge ourselves to seek awe not just in grand moments, but in the everyday: the leaf that drifts across your path, the laughter of a neighbor, the warmth of a cup of tea on a cool morning. Because when we live with awe, we live more deeply, more gratefully, and more vibrantly.

Photo by Al Imran on Unsplash
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09.18.25 | Community

Q&A with Olivia Matongo, Alzheimer’s Association® on Brain Health, Equity, and Community

Sage Collective® and the Alzheimer’s Association® share a powerful common ground: helping older adults live vibrantly with knowledge, connection, and care. Ahead of our Facebook Live conversation with Olivia Matongo, Vice President of the Alzheimer’s Association® Illinois Chapter on September 23, 2025 at 7:00PM CT, we sat down with Olivia about a number of subjects, including how to make brain-healthy living more accessible, equitable, and actionable for our community.

In your role, what does a “good day” look like—and who benefits most from your work?
My team leads community outreach and engagement—we’re the ones executing the mission in the field. That means raising awareness about the disease and about our resources, building relationships with community leaders and organizations, and making sure people who are struggling can access care and support.

How did the relationship with Sage Collective® come to be?
We met at a community meeting and started talking about ways to partner. After follow-up conversations, we landed on doing a session focused on brain health—sharing who we are, what we do, and how we can support Sage Collective®’s community.

Many people ask how to distinguish normal, age-related memory lapses from early warning signs of Alzheimer’s. How do you explain the difference?
Normal aging isn’t disruptive—you might occasionally forget something and then remember it later. Dementia involves memory loss that interferes with daily life, like getting lost on a familiar route or struggling with tasks you used to manage easily. It affects the individual and those around them as loved ones notice changes and step in with more support.

We’re hearing more about new blood tests entering the diagnostic toolkit. What should families know?
Diagnosis is never one single test—clinicians use a number of tools in the diagnostic process, including cognitive and behavioral assessments. Blood-based tools are emerging to help detect biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s, which can make the path to answers less invasive and help families plan and prepare sooner in consultation with their clinicians.

What daily habits do you encourage for better brain health?
At the Alzheimer’s Association®, our public health team recently launched “10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain” grounded in research. Highlights include moving your body, not smoking, managing blood pressure and diabetes, getting enough sleep, keeping your brain learning new things, and following the MIND diet (leafy greens, berries, nuts, lean proteins, and less butter, cheese, and red meat). Doing several of these together can meaningfully reduce risk over time.

Sage Collective®’s “9 Ways of Vibrant Living” align closely with your recommendations.
Exactly. Engagement and purpose are powerful. When partners like Sage Collective®help us reach people with practical, everyday ways to take care of brain and body, the impact multiplies.

How is the Alzheimer’s Association® building trust and access in communities that have been underserved?
We’ve invested for years in focused DEI efforts—partnering with organizations already rooted in Black, Brown, and rural communities. In Chicago, for example, we co-create annual conferences with community planning committees—one on the South Side centered on African American communities and one on the West Side centered on Hispanic communities—so that education, resources, and support truly reflect community needs.

What does a strong partnership with Sage Collective® look like to you?
Access and trust. Being invited in to educate and support your community is huge—and it’s reciprocal. We also ask, “How can we serve Sage Collective®’s goals?” As our organizations continue talking, the partnership can evolve in ways that make sense for both missions.

Join us live
Don’t miss our Facebook Live with the Sage Collective® team and Olivia Matongo from the Alzheimer’s Association®, taking place on Tuesday, September 23rd at 7 PM CT/8 PM ET. We’ll dig deeper into early signs, new diagnostic tools, everyday prevention, and community resources. Bring your questions—and invite a friend or care partner. Go to the Sage Collective® website to reserve your spot!

 

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08.07.25 | Health & Wellness

Joyspan: Measuring Life in Moments, Not Years

At Sage Collective®, we believe that vibrant living isn’t measured solely by how many years we have—but by how fully we live in those years. Just as we talk about lifespan and healthspan, there’s another equally essential, if less frequently named, concept: joyspan.

Joyspan is the measure of how much joy we experience and sustain throughout our lives. It’s not about momentary happiness or fleeting pleasures. It’s about the deep, sustaining joy that comes from meaningful connections, a sense of purpose, curiosity, and the freedom to be our full selves—especially as we age.

Beyond Lifespan and Healthspan
Modern medicine and lifestyle changes have helped extend our lifespan—the number of years we live—and increasingly, our healthspan—the number of those years we live in good health. But neither of those measures captures the richness of human experience. That’s where joyspan comes in.

Joyspan is qualitative, not quantitative. It invites us to ask, Am I making space for joy in my life? What fills me up? What lifts my spirit?

 Joy Matters—Especially As We Age
We live in a world that often underestimates the emotional and creative lives of older adults. There’s a quiet but damaging narrative that says joy belongs to the young. But we know from experience—and from the beautiful lives of those in our communities—that joy can flourish at any age. In fact, many people report a renewed sense of joy in their later years, when priorities shift, distractions fall away, and we’re finally able to savor what matters most.

Joy isn’t frivolous—it’s foundational. Research shows that joy supports mental health, bolsters our immune system, and helps build resilience. It improves relationships, sharpens cognitive function, and even enhances longevity. But beyond the science, joy connects us to our humanity. It allows us to experience gratitude, wonder, and awe.

Cultivating Joyspan: Daily Practices
Unlike lifespan, which is out of our control, joyspan is something we can grow—intentionally and continuously. Here are a few practices we encourage at Sage Collective®:

  • Savor small pleasures: A cup of tea, the bloom of a flower, a warm sunbeam on your shoulder. Joy is often tucked into the ordinary.
  • Stay curious: Explore new interests, revisit old passions, take a class, or start a creative project. Curiosity opens the door to joy.
  • Connect deeply: Spend time with people who see you, love you, and make you laugh. Whether it’s family, friends, or community, joy grows in connection.
  • Practice gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on what brings you peace or pleasure. Gratitude enhances awareness of joy.
  • Move your body: Gentle movement, walking, dancing—these are not just physical exercises but expressions of life and aliveness.

A Joyspan Philosophy
At Sage Collective®, we are reimagining aging by prioritizing wellness, creativity, and community. Embracing joyspan means honoring the emotional dimension of wellness. It invites us to be present, to celebrate beauty in the everyday, and to believe that joy doesn’t have to fade—it can deepen.

Our joyspan is not determined by the absence of hardship, but by how often we can return to joy, even amidst challenge. As we age, joy becomes not just a possibility, but a practice. And in that practice, we find hope.

So we invite you to ask yourself—not how many years you’ve lived, or even how many healthy ones—but how much joy you’ve let in. Because joy is not the icing on life—it’s the nourishment that makes life worth living.

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06.18.25 | Community

Juneteenth 2025: Freedom to Flourish

At Sage Collective®, we believe that Juneteenth is not only a historical milestone—it is a living practice. As we prepare to honor Juneteenth 2025 on Thursday, June 19, we’re holding space for remembrance, reflection, and renewal. This year, we invite our community to consider five powerful themes that speak to the enduring legacy of this day and the vibrant futures we continue to shape.

Freedom Is a Practice, Not Just a Past
On June 19, 1865—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation—news of freedom finally reached the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas. But freedom did not arrive all at once, and it still hasn’t fully arrived for many. That’s why we say: freedom is not a moment; it’s a movement. It’s a practice. It lives in the choices we make every day—how we care for ourselves, how we show up in community, and how we demand dignity at every age. For older adults, practicing freedom can mean living life on your terms, unlearning limiting beliefs, or embracing joy and self-expression in bold new ways.

Inheritance of Hope: What We Carry, What We Pass Down
Juneteenth reminds us that we are the living legacy of those who dreamed before us. The stories, values, and hard-earned wisdom of older generations carry the weight of history—and the promise of healing. At Sage Collective®, we see our elders not just as keepers of memory, but as visionaries shaping the future. Whether it’s sharing family history, mentoring a young neighbor, or leading with quiet strength, every act of intergenerational connection is an act of liberation.

Joy as Liberation
Freedom doesn’t only live in laws or headlines—it lives in laughter, music, movement, and love. This Juneteenth, we celebrate Black joy as a form of resistance and resilience. For those of us who have seen decades of change, choosing joy—especially in a world that often asks us to shrink—is revolutionary. Throw on that bright outfit. Dance in your kitchen. Sing with your grandkids. Joy is not frivolous; it’s a declaration: I am here. I am whole. I deserve delight.

The Future We Deserve: Aging Boldly, Living Freely
While Juneteenth honors the past, it also challenges us to imagine a future where every person—especially older African Americans—can age with safety, creativity, and care. At Sage Collective®, that future includes access to emerging wellness tools, like virtual reality to support cognitive health. It means equitable healthcare, culturally relevant housing, and opportunities for lifelong learning. Liberation is not just about breaking chains—it’s about building a world where we are free to thrive at every stage of life.

We Are the Storytellers
Who better to preserve the spirit of Juneteenth than those who’ve lived through its echoes? Our elders are our griots—our living archives. When you share your story, you don’t just remember—you teach, you inspire, you light the path forward. Whether it’s through a Zoom call with family, a community oral history project, or a quiet conversation on the porch, we encourage you to speak your truth and honor your voice.

This Juneteenth, Let’s Celebrate the Ongoing Journey
We are not just looking back—we’re moving forward. With each story, song, protest, and prayer, we continue the work of making freedom real. At Sage Collective®, we believe that it’s never too late to live boldly, love deeply, and lead with wisdom. Juneteenth is a reminder that freedom is a flame passed from one generation to the next. May we continue to carry it forward—together.

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05.08.25 | Health & Wellness

Soulful Sustenance: Anti-Inflammatory, Plant-Based, and Culturally Rooted Nutrition for Aging Well

At Sage Collective®, we believe vibrant living is nurtured from the inside out. As we age, what we choose to nourish our bodies with becomes more than a matter of taste—it’s a key ingredient in longevity, mobility, and joy. That’s why we’re embracing a conversation around anti-inflammatory, plant-based nutrition that not only supports health but also honors the rich culinary traditions of African American culture.

Why Focus on Inflammation?
Chronic inflammation has been linked to a number of age-related conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. For older African Americans—who are statistically more likely to face these chronic conditions—anti-inflammatory nutrition can serve as both prevention and healing.

The good news? You don’t need expensive supplements or hard-to-find foods. Many of the anti-inflammatory superfoods are familiar ingredients from your own kitchen or garden—and they often show up in the meals your grandparents made with love and intuition.

Plant-Based Eating: A Pathway to Wellness
Plant-based eating doesn’t mean you need to give up meat completely. It simply means placing more emphasis on fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds—all foods that are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that help fight inflammation and support overall vitality.

Start by thinking of your plate as a palette. Colorful vegetables like collard greens, sweet potatoes, okra, tomatoes, bell peppers, and squash are deeply rooted in African American foodways and loaded with nutrients. Whole grains like millet, sorghum, and brown rice offer slow-burning energy and support digestive health. And beans—such as black-eyed peas, lentils, and butter beans—are affordable powerhouses of protein and fiber.

Honoring Tradition Through a Healing Lens
Food is more than fuel—it’s memory, connection, and culture. At Sage Collective®, we celebrate the flavors and foodways that have nourished generations. But we also encourage evolving our plates in ways that serve our long-term health.

For example, traditional dishes like red beans and rice or stewed greens can be made even more anti-inflammatory by cutting back on processed meats and seasoning instead with herbs, garlic, onions, and a splash of vinegar. Swap frying for roasting or sautéing with olive oil—a heart-healthy fat that supports brain function and reduces inflammation.

And don’t forget the herbs and spices passed down through our traditions—turmeric, ginger, cayenne, thyme, and cinnamon all have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Easy Changes with Big Impact
You don’t need to overhaul everything overnight. Small, steady shifts can make a big difference:

  • Add one plant-based meal per day.
  • Drink more water and herbal teas like hibiscus or green tea.
  • Snack on walnuts or berries instead of processed chips or cookies.
  • Use whole grains instead of refined flour when you can.

Over time, these habits can reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and even ease joint pain.

Food as Self-Care, Food as Legacy
At its core, anti-inflammatory, plant-based eating is about choosing foods that love us back. It’s about reclaiming the healing power of the kitchen and embracing the wisdom of our ancestors who grew, cooked, and healed with the earth in mind.

For older African Americans, this isn’t just a health movement—it’s a form of self-care, self-respect, and cultural preservation. As we pass recipes down, let’s also pass down the knowledge that vibrant aging is possible—and that food is both our heritage and our medicine.

At Sage Collective®, we’re here to walk that path with you. Whether you’re trying Meatless Mondays, revamping family recipes, or learning to shop the produce aisle with fresh eyes, every choice matters. Let’s celebrate the power of plants, tradition, and intention—on every plate, every day.

Credit: Creative Commons Public Domain image from rawpixel.com
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03.06.25 | Mental Wellbeing

Mastering Video Creation with Your Smartphone: An Interview with Demetri Williams

At Sage Collective®, we believe that technology should be accessible, engaging, and empowering—especially for older adults looking to stay connected with their families and communities. That’s why we’re excited to feature Demetri Williams, a seasoned video producer and editor, as part of our Vibrant Learning Series. With over a decade of experience in video storytelling, Demetri is on a mission to help older adults capture, edit, and share their stories through smartphone video creation.

Demetri shares his journey into video production, the transformative power of storytelling, and how learning video recording, editing, and sharing can open new creative doors for older adults.

What first sparked your interest in video storytelling?
“I first discovered my passion for videography when my father introduced me to my first digital camcorder. He was always capturing moments—taking photos and recording family memories—and that fascinated me. But it wasn’t until I studied broadcast at Winthrop University that I truly grasped the impact of video. One defining moment was my first video editing project, where I created a music video featuring a few friends. That project earned the highest grade in class and became an example for future students. That’s when I knew I had a special talent for video production.”

You spent a decade creating corporate video content. How has that shaped your approach to storytelling?
“Working in corporate video production taught me that every experience holds a compelling story—even in structured business settings. I learned to approach storytelling from different angles and to always consider how a video can inspire, educate, or make an impact. Whether you’re filming a corporate message or capturing a personal moment, storytelling is key.”

What do you love most about video production and editing?
“The editing process is what excites me the most. There’s something almost magical about watching an idea come to life on screen. Taking raw footage and transforming it into a powerful visual story is incredibly rewarding.”

What inspired you to teach these video skills as part of Sage Collective’s Vibrant Learning program?
“Video creation is an invaluable skill, and I believe older adults should have access to it. We live in a world where technology is rapidly evolving, and knowing how to record, edit, and share videos allows people to stay connected and preserve their memories and legacy. My goal is to help seniors embrace technology and use it as a creative tool.

Your first class taught participants how to use their smartphone as a personal recording tool. Why is this such a valuable skill?
“Most people own a smartphone, but few maximize its camera features. Learning how to frame shots, adjust lighting, and use smartphone settings can elevate video quality dramatically. With the right skills, participants can document family memories, record life stories, and even create mini-documentaries.”

Do you have favorite apps or tools that make mobile video recording easier?
“Absolutely! The basic camera app on a smartphone is great, but apps like Instagram and Snapchat allow you to experiment with filters and effects. I also recommend using a small, portable tripod for stabilizing shots—it makes a huge difference in video quality.”

Editing can seem intimidating. How do you make it feel approachable?
“I start with the basics—trimming clips, rearranging sequences, and adjusting audio. Once you shape the story, you can explore transitions, effects, and sound enhancements.

Tips for beginners:
✔ Familiarize yourself with basic editing tools like cutting and trimming.
✔ Organize your footage and focus on key moments.
✔ Experiment with music and sound effects to enhance your story.”

Once someone has created a video, what’s the best way to share it?
“It depends on your audience. If you want to share with family and friends, Facebook is a great choice. If you’re promoting a creative project or small business, Instagram is ideal. The key is to choose a platform that aligns with your goals.”

What privacy or security settings should people be aware of when sharing videos online?
“Be mindful of personal information—avoid sharing home addresses, license plates, or school locations. Once something is posted online, it can stay there indefinitely, so it’s important to control what you share and with whom.”

Many older adults may not see themselves as “content creators.” What advice do you have for them?
“You don’t have to be a professional to create meaningful videos. Video is a way to document family history, preserve cultural traditions, and share wisdom with future generations. Your stories matter, and video allows you to keep them alive.”

What excites you most about teaching these classes?
“I love seeing people unlock their creativity and gain confidence in using technology. It’s incredibly rewarding to help participants connect with their families and communities in new ways.”

What do you hope participants take away from your classes?
“I hope they embrace their creativity and curiosity. Learning is lifelong, and video production is an exciting way to explore storytelling, preserve memories, and engage with the digital world. My message to participants is simple: Don’t be afraid to create. Your stories deserve to be told.”

 

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02.20.25 | Health & Wellness

Love at Any Age: A Guide to Healthy Relationships for Older Adults

Love knows no age. Whether you’re re-entering the dating world, nurturing a long-term relationship, or seeking companionship, building and maintaining a healthy relationship in your later years can be a deeply rewarding experience. As we explored in the launch of Season 2 of Sage Advice® Vibrant Living, The Podcast, we believe in fostering vibrant living, which includes meaningful relationships that bring joy, companionship, and emotional fulfillment.

If you’re looking for love or hoping to strengthen your current partnership, here are some key insights to help cultivate healthy, lasting relationships in this chapter of life.

Prioritize Open Communication
Clear and honest communication is the foundation of any successful relationship. Whether discussing personal values, expectations, or day-to-day activities, open dialogue fosters understanding and trust between partners.
Try this:

  • Share your thoughts and feelings openly, without fear of judgment.
  • Actively listen to your partner, acknowledging their concerns and perspectives.
  • Use “I” statements, such as “I feel appreciated when we spend quality time together.”

Healthy relationships thrive on mutual respect and communication, allowing both partners to feel heard and valued.

Be Patient—Good Things Take Time
Whether you’re dating after a long break or adjusting to new relationship dynamics, remember that love is a journey, not a race. Developing trust and deep emotional connections takes time.

❤️ Keep in mind:

  • If you’re dating, allow relationships to unfold naturally—there’s no rush.
  • If you’re in a long-term relationship, embrace the ebbs and flows of love, knowing that every relationship evolves.

Patience is a gift that allows relationships to flourish at their own pace.

Embrace Change Together
As we age, our lives continue to evolve—whether through health changes, family dynamics, or personal growth. The key to maintaining a strong relationship is learning to navigate these changes as a team.

🔑 How to adapt together:

  • View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
  • Be supportive and flexible as life circumstances shift.
  • Approach the future with curiosity and optimism.

When couples embrace change together, they strengthen their emotional connection and ability to face life’s ups and downs.

Engage in Shared Activities
One of the best ways to bond with a partner is through shared experiences. Whether it’s a new hobby or a favorite pastime, engaging in activities together strengthens your connection and keeps the relationship exciting.

🎨 Ideas to explore:

  • Take a dance class or explore gentle movement exercises together.
  • Join a book club or read the same novel and discuss it.
  • Cook meals together, try new recipes, or dine at new restaurants.
  • Travel—whether it’s a weekend getaway or exploring a nearby museum.

Shared experiences create lasting memories and reinforce your emotional bond.

Maintain Physical Affection
Physical touch is an important aspect of intimacy at any age. Holding hands, hugging, or simply sitting close can foster feelings of closeness and security.

💞 Ways to keep the spark alive:

  • Express affection through small gestures—a gentle touch, a smile, or a kind note.
  • Don’t be afraid to discuss intimacy needs with your partner.
  • Explore new ways to connect physically, whether through dance, massage, or romantic gestures.

A strong emotional and physical connection enhances relationship satisfaction and emotional well-being.

Be Honest About Your History & Keep an Open Mind
Honesty is key when it comes to building trust in any relationship. Be transparent about your past experiences, health, family dynamics, and personal needs. At the same time, stay open-minded to new possibilities—every relationship is unique!

💡 Tips for openness:

  • Share your personal journey and listen to your partner’s experiences.
  • Acknowledge past relationships but focus on creating new memories together.
  • Embrace differences and approach love with curiosity rather than comparison.

By being honest and open, you create a safe and supportive environment for love to thrive.

Love Is for Every Stage of Life
At Sage Collective®, we believe that love and connection are essential to vibrant living. Whether you’re rediscovering romance, nurturing a long-term partnership, or seeking companionship, healthy relationships bring joy, support, and fulfillment.

💖 Remember:

  • Communicate openly and embrace patience.
  • Adapt together as life evolves.
  • Engage in shared activities to strengthen your bond.
  • Express affection and keep an open heart.

No matter where you are on your journey, love remains one of life’s most beautiful experiences. Here’s to finding, nurturing, and celebrating love—at any age!

Would you like to learn more about vibrant living and relationships in later life? Follow Sage Collective® for resources, community, and inspiration! 🌿💫

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