Citation

Ford RD. Activ. Adapt. Aging 1995; 19(2): 61-71.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1995, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J016v19n02_07

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

For as long as we can remember, we've heard the saying that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks," interpreted to mean that it's difficult for people to break old habits and learn new things that will improve their lives. The authors look at this "proverb" or adage and prove that this is not always the case when it comes to the disabled elderly who are determined to remain productive and live life to its fullest with their families and in their communities. The authors show that for those who transcend the four barriers of apathy, mobility issues, lack of information and resistance to the new, especially assistive technology, life offers many opportunities and rewards. These barriers are examined from an African American perspective, as disability issues are affected by the variables of race and age.