Non-profit American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has tapped photographer Gregg Segal to document the heart-warming life stories of American Gen X that are now stepping into retirement. The photographic campaign is done to help the AARP achieve its goal of empowering people as they age, it helps the public empathize with those aged over 50 as they navigate a world that caters to its youth. The AARP’s programs help the elderly with their taxes, equip them with anti-fraud and anti-scam knowledge and give them the opportunity to volunteer as readers for children. This is why Segal’s photographs are relevant to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Reduced Inequalities.
Segal’s photographs both show the youths the wonderful contributions of the older generation and at the same time, inspires other elderly to actively continue living their lives to the fullest despite their age. One series follows the life of Albert Martinez, a Mariachi Band Director at Uvalde High School. Martinez had managed to make his students fall in love with mariachi in just one semester. He was able to connect with them personally, showing that mariachi is a part of their heritage and something to be proud of. Despite being struck by the tragedy of the Uvalde school shooting, his mariachi band managed to keep school spirits high, going on to win state championships and inspiring communities.
Another series follows the San Fernando Valley (SFV) Roller Derby Group. These photographs showed how senior women, despite their physical limits, can still perform well in high-stakes sports. “Roller derby gave me my first black eye and I’ve been stitched up a few times. I’ve even had orthoscopic knee surgery, but the adrenaline rush, it’s worth it,” said Gail Gomez, a member of the SFV. Much like Martinez’s story, the story of the SFV Roller Derby girls inspires both youth and older adults.
Despite the inspirational stories that Segal’s photographs tell, it is important to note that these elderly who have managed to stay empowered in their old age belong to a group of minorities in a reality dominated by poor quality of life for the elderly. A study published by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) found that 40 percent of American elderly are below the national average in terms of physical performance. On top of that, almost 20 percent of them were found to be below the national average for mental health. This is why the work that the AARP does is imperative, and so are the photographs by Segal who campaigns for them.
Segal’s photographs show that when given the right opportunities and resources, like those provided by the AARP, senior American citizens can lead full lives too. They can inspire a whole new generation to strive for the same level of passion and dedication for their craft and communities, as seen in Segal’s photographs.
Find out more about Gregg Segal’s photographs for AARP and their other initiatives by checking their Instagram on @greggsegal.