Karen’s Korner
Change has always been a fascinating phenomenon to me. It is one of those things that is greatly dreaded or graciously welcomed; depending on the circumstances that surround it. One of the most critical changes that occur in a lifetime is the one that deals with the aging process. “Aging gracefully,” as it is often referred to, is often a misnomer according to a dear friend of mine who has reached the “aging gracefully” stage.
She says, and I quote, ”There is certainly nothing graceful about wearing depends, losing your memory, and counting the wrinkles.” She has a point well taken. She goes on to say, “You can believe what you want to, and I know life is what you make it, but, getting old is no fun. You get to where you kind of know what life is about and how to live it, then you leave it. “Doesn’t seem fair, does it?”
At first, I thought she needed an attitude “tune-up” but the more I think about it, the more I tend to understand and agree. Maybe it is because I am getting older as well. Growing older “gracefully” or not, requires major changes in our lives.
The desire for independence is essential in the life of an individual, and yet that independence ever so slowly gives way to dependence on someone else for basic needs. The thought process begins to falter because the memory is slowly being erased with each passing day. The physical features begin to break down, the agility and strength diminish, and we just cannot do what we once could do.
As my “aging gracefully” friend says, “old age sneaks up on you and then one day it bites you in the backside.” She was a very colorful friend, to say the least
And, in a sense, it does sneak up on some and, in the same sense, it literally runs over others. It is a definite challenge. So, the question is a tough one. How can we make all those changes of the aging process more pleasant? And is it even possible to do so?
Education is important…we need to know the natural progression of aging.
While no two people are the same, there are some things that are going to affect us all. We will all age, gracefully or not.
Planning is also important…we need to plan for our latter years, where we will live, what information is available for housing, (if we cannot stay in our home), people who will be our contacts to guide and help with financial and legal decisions!
Changes in Mobility – have a solid fitness base, different forms of exercise, regular check-ups with geriatric physicians whom you trust!
Developing healthy concepts concerning dieting and eating the proper foods.
Prioritize Socializing for your mental health… stay active as long as you possibly can!
While we are all growing older day by day, it doesn’t have to slip up on us. Be prepared! After all, graceful or not, we still have choices…and we are all aging!