"I'm Old, Am I Worthless?"
In Retirement Counseling: A Practical Guide for Action, by H.C. Riker & J. E. Myers, 1992,  they quote Rubin's "psycho philosophy" that may help elders, who feel of little to no worth, gain some appreciation for themselves. These statements should help individuals enjoy living in the here and now and face adversity with self-assurance. The following is adapted from his concepts: (Note: Rubin’s actual words are italicized)

1. Feelings of depression, worthlessness. Try to get the elder to consider that they really do not need to have a reason to exist: 'I am because I am'

2. The next step, after step 1 has been accepted, is to recognize that everyone is unique: 'I am I'. The goal is to help the older adult to see that trying to be like others in the peer group is not necessary: You grow more unique as you age.

3. Even feelings and desires should be allowed in the older individual: 'I need, I want, I choose'. Just as in other phases of life, one can not have all that is desired or wished for. Certain things have need for greater priority. But not withstanding this, people still have the right to dreams.

4. Helping the reality of needs, wants, and desires, the reality of time and place must also be considered: 'I am where I am.' For some older people, they find that they are not where they would wish to be, whether measuring health, marital status, finances, or disabilities. But to recognize reality is to being to effectively deal with it.

5. The next step recognizes the need to be involved: 'Be here now.' This stresses the point that the past and future do not exist, only the present. Some older individuals find themselves "marking time" until they die. Living to the best of one's abilities can make life rich throughout the life course.

6. The sixth component points out that life is a process, and that the emphasis is on the process, not the product. One need not be measured by material wealth or station, since the "ride" taken to get to the present is its own reward.

7. Abilities and capacities change in each person. It is therefore important to recognize that 'I always do my best.'  Though Rubin stated it exactly that way, I like to add: "at the time." Age can bring some gains and some losses, so today's "best" is all that matters.

8. The eight components conveys the idea that human beings are complex and, at time, inconsistent. It recognizes that harsh words may be spoken, but they may reflect the other's very difficult day, rather than your worth. The older person can also recognize that, like all other humans, they would have times that seem to be irrational.

9. For self-preservation and appreciation, the older adult needs to recognize their right to

say: 'No' At times many well-intentioned people (like children) ask the elder to baby-sit or other favor. To avoid potentially serious stress, the elder must know when to decline.

10. An older person must be able to cherish the difference between participation and performance. Many feel less valuable in roles they once had while in their prime. But it is healthy to have simple participation in older years rather than competition to "out perform" themselves or others.

11. Death is part of life and both have certain rights: 'The right to live and the right to die'. While alive, the older patient should be given the respect to make their own decisions. When death comes, they should not be burdened with children pleading that they can not die for someone else's sake.

The twelfth, and last component is acceptance of the saying, 'Life is tough.' Older cohorts have lived through very tough times. They have seen difficulties before. They can once again tackle life's problems--even if they are "unfair" troubles.