FOREWORD

You are about to journey into an extraordinary realm of timeless wisdom through the perceptive lens of a true visionary. With both profound appreciation and fascination, Arlene de Silva reaches into the soul of each aged subject and poignantly captures their trials, tribulations and triumphs.

Photographer, author and aging expert/advocate, de Silva illuminates the power of the human spirit in her classic collection, Faces in Aging. With every page turn, you’ll find yourself drawn into the eyes of each subject that reflect far more than words could ever express.

From the moment I viewed these inspirational photographs displayed in her corporate board room setting, I felt profoundly moved by the true genius of a photographer who deeply connected with each of her subjects. As you are about to discover, Faces in Aging is far more than a mere collection of portraits. It is a bridge toward unraveling the essence of who we are and who we can become through images that have an amazing capacity to call out to us and beckon our undivided attention.

With a universal focus, Arlene de Silva skillfully guides us toward an indelible
appreciation of seniors who are often overlooked in our society. Prepare yourself for one of life’s greatest lessons as we honor and celebrate the true wisdom of our elders through Faces in Aging.

– Barry Bittman, M.D.
CEO – Yamaha Music & Wellness Institute

"I congratulate you on this true testament to active ageing and a balanced depiction of older persons in four countries and regions of the world."

– Robert Venne
Office of Ageing
United Nations

"I love the diversity of the faces of the world that you've put together. There's a human story in every face."

– Connie Goldman
Award Winning Independent Public Radio Producer, Author and Speaker
Hudson, Wisconsin

"Your book is a marvelous compilation of the Faces in Aging. What a joy to view the photographs and read about each one!"

– Joan Lawrence
Former State Director
Ohio Department of Aging
Columbus, Ohio

“Arlene de Silva¹s Faces in Aging utilizes the universal language of photography to promote an unparalleled awareness of the importance of diversity and aging.”

– George E. Jones Jr.,
Professional Photographer

“This incredible photographic collection not only touches the soul, it unites all of us as a world community.”

– Tilak de Zoysa,
Chairman of HelpAge Sri Lanka
and Board Member of HelpAge International, UK

"These portraits clearly demonstrate the importance of global connections to ensure quality care for the elderly."

– Virginia D. Nuessle, Executive Director,
IAHSA The Global Ageing Network