 my name is stacey dubreus and i am an incoming medical student currently working on an independent writing project exploring aging through the lens of identity community autonomy and meaning i am reaching out to inquire about the possibility of speaking with residents at your facility who may be interested in participating in interviews for this project the book is a social commentary on the common discomfort and cultural unease surrounding aging through personal reflection clinical experiences and conversations with older adults i hope to explore how individuals can define their lives on their own terms pivot when circumstances change and cultivate perspective in ways that lead to fulfillment across the lifespan a central theme is understanding aging not as decline alone but as a deeply human season shaped by community purpose and personal agency if permitted i would conduct respectful conversational interviews with residents who voluntarily choose to participate full informed consent would be obtained from each participant and i would work closely with your team to ensure that all ethical considerations privacy standards and institutional policies are upheld participation would be entirely optional and residents would have the freedom to decline or withdraw at any time i would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with you briefly to share more details about the project answer any questions and discuss whether this collaboration might be appropriate for your community i am happy to schedule a phone or virtual meeting at your convenience in the coming weeks thank you for considering this request i deeply value the wisdom and lived experiences of older adults and i would be honored to help share their perspectives with care and integrity 