Paraphrased article

Steven Heller

When I’m Sixty-Five

As stated by Heller (2015, p1) ‘Sixty-four isn’t that old these days’. The author suggests that 64 year olds shouldn’t be treated and looked at as helpless individuals who acquire heavy attention, as 60 is still considered relatively young by today’s social standards.

The real trouble however starts when one turns 65. At 65, the government sees you not only as an adult, but as senior citizen with senior perks. Despite the numerous privileges that the government is providing senior with, Heller is complaining about the actual graphics design found on cards and other materials that defines one’s age and right (rather than the rights themselves). The author believes that death certificates are more visually appealing than Medicare IDs. He also says that the email he received from said administration added insult to injury as the headline’s type was written in a cartoon bold Italics type style.

‘Good design is supposed to be ageless, not aged’ (Heller, 2015, p2). While Heller is thankful for this privileges, he is hopeful that design targeted towards the elderly changes from that which is borderline disrespectful, to something which is clean, fun yet legible.