In a stark warning that shakes the foundations of elder care, psychologist Walter Riso unveils the silent epidemic infantilizing those over 70, stripping away their dignity and autonomy in the name of love. Drawing from real-life stories and decades of expertise, he demands immediate action to halt this psychological violence before it destroys lives forever.
Riso’s revelations come amid growing concerns about how societies treat aging individuals, turning them into passive spectators of their own existence. In his latest video, the expert shares harrowing tales, like that of a 76-year-old former surgeon whose family overruled his every choice, leaving him questioning his worth. This isn’t isolated; it’s a widespread crisis demanding urgent attention.
The core issue, Riso argues, is the normalization of treating elders as children, using phrases like “for your own good“ to mask control. He outlines five insidious masks that hide this 𝓪𝓫𝓾𝓼𝓮, from “I do it because I love you“ to “At your age, it’s dangerous.“ Each erodes independence, fostering a dangerous cycle of learned helplessness that psychologists have long studied.
Take the story of Ricardo, a 76-year-old engineer stripped of his car keys despite no health issues, simply for reaching 75. Confined to his home, he spiraled into depression, illustrating how such actions steal not just freedom but identity. Riso emphasizes this isn’t about rejecting help; it’s about maintaining the right to decide, a fundamental human need.
The psychological toll is profound, with research showing that loss of autonomy accelerates cognitive decline and shortens lifespans. Elders who relinquish control often experience “social death,“ where they’re alive but excluded from decisions, their voices silenced. Riso warns this spiral is irreversible if not confronted head-on, urging families to rethink their approaches.
In his urgent call, Riso provides practical tools to fight back, starting with learning to say “no“ firmly yet respectfully. For instance, respond to overreach with, “I appreciate your concern, but this decision is mine.“ This simple phrase reclaims power without burning bridges, fostering mutual respect in relationships.
Another key strategy is the “powerful question,“ like asking, “Why do you assume I can’t handle this?“ It forces others to reflect on their biases, often rooted in cultural stereotypes about aging. Riso stresses that building a “contract of autonomy“ with loved ones—clearly defining non-negotiable areas—can prevent conflicts and preserve dignity.
Yet, the deepest battle is internal, against what Riso calls internalized ageism. This voice whispers doubts like “Maybe I’m too old for that,“ echoing societal prejudices. He advises challenging these thoughts by seeking counterexamples, such as elders thriving in new pursuits, and rewriting personal narratives with affirming statements.
Riso’s message is a wake-up call for a generation: protect your autonomy now, or risk fading into oblivion. He shares stories like Jorge’s, who dreamed of living by the sea but was denied, dying without fulfillment. This highlights the emotional devastation, where unvoiced desires lead to regret and isolation.
The urgency can’t be overstated; studies confirm that active decision-making keeps the brain sharp and spirits alive. Riso, with over four decades in psychology, isn’t speculating—he’s delivering evidence-based truths. Families must shift from overprotection to empowerment, ensuring elders remain active participants in their lives.
In this breaking expose, Riso exposes how misinterpreted gratitude traps many into submission, where accepting help means surrendering rights. He clarifies that true gratitude empowers, not diminishes, urging elders to demand respect without guilt. This paradigm shift could transform aging from survival to vibrant living.
Riso’s video, gaining rapid traction, serves as a catalyst for change, with viewers sharing their stories online. Experts are already praising his insights, calling for policy reforms in elder care. The time to act is now, as every day without intervention deepens the crisis.
Wrapping up his impassioned plea, Riso reminds us that dignity isn’t negotiable—it’s a birthright. For those over 70, reclaiming it means defying norms, embracing tools for autonomy, and silencing internal critics. This isn’t just advice; it’s a revolution for millions feeling invisible, sparking a global conversation on aging with respect.