Final answer:
Mary is engaged in Age Reinterpretation, where she redefines perceptions of aging and challenges stereotypes associated with old age and frailty. This proactive approach is contrary to ageism, which often impacts the elderly through discrimination in various aspects of life. Reframing these notions allows older adults like Mary to live fulfilling and autonomous lives.
Step-by-step explanation:
As Mary has gotten older, she is actively engaging in Age Reinterpretation. This concept involves redefining perceptions of aging and challenging the stereotypes associated with old age and frailty. Rather than accepting a view of herself as incapable or dependent, Mary is reshaping her understanding to see herself as able to continue taking care of herself and to remain active. This process is a response to ageism, which is the prejudice and discrimination directed towards individuals based on their age. Ageism can lead to erroneous assumptions about the abilities and frailty of older adults, affecting various aspects of their life including access to health care, employment opportunities, and social respect.
People's attitudes towards aging can be shaped by societal, cultural, and institutional biases. However, many seniors are defying these biases and living vibrant, active lives well into their later years. By reinterpreting the meaning of age, individuals like Mary can maintain their autonomy and continue to engage in meaningful activities, despite societal stereotypes that may suggest otherwise.