Individuation and AARP

by Elder Charles Blake

”The Individuation process moves along two tracks. The first is designed to help people recognize and fulfill their own unique potentials. This involves differentiating the self from the constraints of conditioning that are imposed by family and other external influences. The second track requires differentiation from one’s environment: One asks, How am I part of that which surrounds me, and how am I different.”- p. 134, Boundries of the the SOUL: The Practice of Jung's Psychology by June Singer.

When I was retired from Community Services Board of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula on April 15, 2019, I was passionate about C.G. Jung’s Analytical Psychology and it’s concept of Individuation. Since April 15th I have become passionate about becoming an AARP Volunteer and Community Ambassador! My current understanding of AARP’s goal is to assist the individuals in the 50+ community in their personal Individuation process AARP understands that one size does not fit all Elders (This is my preferred language for 50+ folks. It’s how I like to be addressed.) Many
Elders will still be working outside the home. Some will be new entrepreneurs. Many will be self-employed as CareGivers for parents, spouses, and other relatives or friends. Some will choose and sustain a leisure lifestyle. They might be fascinated and occupied by world travel, golf, tennis or a myriad of other interests and activities. Other’s will be struggling a hard battle against becoming homeless. Just providing for our own and our families medical care can be a totally consuming occupation at some points on our Elder journey. AARP has been working on supporting 50+ folks with all these issues for sixty years.

AARP is dedicated to helping Elders discover and LIVE the Real Possibilities that fulfill their authentic Individuation Process. I am excited and fulfilled by being an AARP VOLUNTEER! Join me!