Exploring Aging through Comics: The 2025 Edition

September 2, 2025

A groundbreaking comic strip is offering a fresh perspective on managing the persistent symptoms of Long Covid, emphasizing the potential of tailored physical activity for rehabilitation. This innovative approach stems from a popular science competition hosted by the aging research center (CDRV) linked to the Ciusss de l’Estrie – CHUS, designed to communicate complex research in an accessible format.

the Power of Visual Storytelling

During the winter of 2025, CDRV invited researchers to submit proposals for transforming their projects into engaging comic strips. A panel comprising scientists and senior citizens evaluated submissions, ultimately selecting a project by Sarah-Eve lord, a Master’s student in physical activity sciences at the University of Sherbrooke. Lord’s work centers on Long Covid and its impact on individuals.

Long Covid: Find My Abilities One Step at a Time

Lord’s winning text, titled Long covid: find my abilities one step at a time, charts the rehabilitation journey of an individual grappling with the ongoing effects of the disease. The narrative was then brought to life by acclaimed comic book artist Martin Patenaude-Monette, recognized for his contributions to Québec Science‘s “Labo echo” section.

Understanding the Long Covid Challenge

The ongoing effects of Covid-19,often referred to as Long Covid,poses significant challenges for many individuals. Symptoms can range from fatigue and shortness of breath to cognitive dysfunction, impacting daily life and overall well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC), as of June 2024, an estimated 13.3% of U.S. adults who had Covid-19 reported experiencing long-term symptoms.

This comic strip aims to demystify the rehabilitation process and provide hope to those navigating this complex condition. It highlights that, with the right approach, regaining abilities and improving quality of life is absolutely possible. The comic has also been published in the 2025 edition of the The inks journal of the aging research center.

Did You Know? Gentle exercise, when appropriately tailored to an individual’s symptom severity, can help improve mitochondrial function, a key factor in combating the fatigue often associated with Long Covid.

pro Tip: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you are experiencing Long Covid symptoms. A personalized plan is crucial for safe and effective recovery.

Do you believe visual aids like comic strips are an effective way to communicate complex scientific concepts? What role do you think personalized exercise plans play in managing chronic health conditions?

The Evolving Landscape of Long Covid Research

Research into Long Covid is rapidly evolving, with ongoing studies exploring various treatment strategies. Beyond exercise, emerging therapies include pharmacological interventions, nutritional support, and psychological counseling. The key to successful management lies in a holistic approach that addresses the multifaceted nature of the condition.

Symptom	Common Long Covid Manifestation	Potential Exercise Benefit
Fatigue	Persistent tiredness, even after rest	Improved mitochondrial function, increased energy levels
shortness of Breath	Difficulty breathing, even with minimal exertion	Enhanced cardiovascular fitness, improved lung capacity
Cognitive Dysfunction	“Brain fog,” difficulty concentrating	Increased blood flow to the brain, improved cognitive function

Frequently Asked Questions about Long Covid and Exercise

• What is Long Covid? Long Covid refers to the persistent symptoms that some people experience after a Covid-19 infection.
• Can exercise really help with Long Covid? Yes, carefully designed exercise programs can improve symptoms and quality of life, but it must be personalized.
• What type of exercise is best for Long covid? Gentle, low-impact activities like walking, stretching, and yoga are often recommended initially.
• Is there a risk of worsening symptoms with exercise? Yes, pushing too hard too soon can exacerbate symptoms. Gradual progression is essential.
• Where can I find more facts about Long Covid? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites offer comprehensive resources.

Share this article with anyone who might benefit from learning more about the role of exercise in Long Covid recovery.Leave a comment below with your thoughts and experiences!

How does the emergence of “gerocomics” challenge conventional representations of older adults in comic books?

The Rise of Gerocomics & Age-Positive Portrayal

The landscape of comics is shifting. For decades, depictions of older adults were frequently enough stereotypical – frail, grumpy, or simply absent. But a new wave of creators and publishers are challenging these norms, giving rise to what some are calling “gerocomics” – comics specifically focused on the experiences of aging. This isn’t just about representation; itS about validating a meaningful demographic and sparking crucial conversations around senior health, elderly care, and the aging process. The demand for comics for seniors is demonstrably increasing,fueled by a growing aging population and a desire for relatable narratives.

Key Themes in Contemporary Aging Comics

Several recurring themes are emerging in comics addressing aging. These aren’t limited to illness or decline, but encompass the full spectrum of later life.

Navigating Loss & Grief: Comics offer a powerful medium to explore the emotional complexities of losing loved ones, dealing with physical limitations, and adjusting to new realities. Titles like Fun Home by Alison Bechdel (though not solely focused on aging,it powerfully depicts intergenerational relationships and loss) paved the way for more nuanced portrayals.

Redefining Identity: Retirement, empty nests, and changing physical abilities frequently enough prompt a re-evaluation of self. Comics are increasingly showing characters finding new passions, embracing new roles, and discovering strength in vulnerability. Positive aging is a key concept explored here.

Intergenerational Connections: Stories highlighting the bonds between grandparents and grandchildren, or the challenges and rewards of caring for aging parents, are gaining prominence. These narratives emphasize the importance of family caregiving and mutual respect.

Challenging Ageism: Comics are directly confronting societal biases and stereotypes surrounding aging. Creators are showcasing older adults as active, vibrant individuals with valuable contributions to make. This is crucial in combating age discrimination.

Chronic Illness & Healthcare: While not always the central focus,manny comics realistically depict the challenges of managing chronic diseases like arthritis,dementia,and heart conditions. They can offer insights into the healthcare system from a patient’s perspective.

Notable Comics & Graphic Novels (2023-2025)

The past few years have seen a surge in relevant titles. Here are a few standouts:

1. “Wrinkles” by Paco Roca: (Originally published earlier, but continues to gain recognition) A poignant story about two elderly friends facing the realities of aging and dementia. Its realistic portrayal of cognitive decline is particularly impactful.
2. “The Sculptor” by Scott McCloud: While not exclusively about aging,the narrative explores themes of mortality and legacy through the lens of an artist facing a terminal illness.
3. “Grandma’s Boy” by Tillie Walden: A semi-autobiographical graphic memoir exploring the author’s relationship with her grandmother and the complexities of family dynamics.
4. Independent & Webcomics: Platforms like Webtoon and Tapas are fostering a diverse range of creators exploring aging through short-form comics and serialized stories. Searching for tags like #aging, #seniors, and #elderly can uncover hidden gems.

benefits of engaging with Aging-Themed Comics

Beyond entertainment, reading and creating comics about aging offers several benefits:

Increased Empathy: Comics can foster understanding and compassion for the experiences of older adults.

reduced Stigma: By normalizing conversations about aging, comics can help dismantle negative stereotypes.

Emotional Processing: For individuals navigating their own aging process or caring for aging loved ones, comics can provide a safe space to explore complex emotions.

Creative Expression: Comics creation can be a therapeutic outlet for expressing thoughts and feelings about aging. Art therapy principles are frequently enough at play.

Intergenerational Dialog: Sharing and discussing comics can spark meaningful conversations between generations.

Comics as a Tool for Healthcare & Education

The potential of comics extends beyond personal enrichment.Healthcare professionals and educators are increasingly recognizing their value as a communication tool.

Patient Education: Comics can simplify complex medical information and make it more accessible to older adults. Visual storytelling can improve comprehension and adherence to treatment plans.

Dementia Care: Comics have been used to help individuals with dementia recall memories and communicate their needs. Reminiscence therapy can be enhanced through visual prompts.

Caregiver Support: Comics can provide caregivers with insights into the emotional and practical challenges of their role.

Gerontology Curriculum: Comics are being incorporated into gerontology courses to provide students with a more humanistic understanding of aging.

practical Tips for Finding & Enjoying Aging-Themed Comics

Explore Online Databases: Websites like Goodreads and Comic Book Database allow you to search for comics by theme and keyword.

Follow Comic Book Reviewers: Many reviewers specialize in graphic novels and memoirs,and can recommend relevant titles.

Visit Local Comic Book Stores: Talk to store owners and staff – they can frequently enough point you towards hidden gems.

Join Online Communities: Connect with other readers and creators in online forums and social media groups.

* Support Independent Creators: consider purchasing comics directly from artists and