Ageism, like all prejudices, influences the self view and behavior of its victims. The elderly tend to adopt negative definitions of themselves and to perpetuate the very stereotypes directed against them, thereby reinforcing society's beliefs. Ageism strikes at the very roots of a spirituality in aging. The elderly individuals are perceived by many individuals and society as a whole to be a burden, a problem to be dealt with rather than a channel of God's grace for themselves and for society as a whole. Memories, especially the good ones,need to be treasured and brought to consciousness from time to time.
Good memories help provide a sense of well-being and validate one's life.
Painful memories remind us that there is still work to do. It is in the present moment that we encounter our God. God is God of the present moment. God is God of the present and God's gift to us is the present moment. St. Paul of the Cross, the founder of the Passionists, laid great emphasis on the practice of the Presence of God.