I’m 96 and doing well, so I have something to say about aging. I hope whatever I write is valuable to those already a member of my population or moving into it.
Regardless of what is said and written about “those golden years,” I don’t think so. I think “old age” sucks. So much takes place when you get there—and “there” can be a vast territory. It may happen in the mid-sixties or seventies and, for sure, the eighties and up.
Almost all of us who are “there” must give up skiing, biking, hiking, and sports activities in general. If we work out (as I did) regularly, our routine changes or diminishes; if one is not determined, it goes away completely. None of this is voluntary, but it happens because we cannot do what we did yesterday. On the other hand, my being in excellent shape certainly contributes to my sticking around. Frankly, I think it has mostly to do with Lenette. Love is that strong.
We live in a senior complex that is like a resort for people 55 and older. Aging brings with it a variety of disabilities. Most here are in their 70s and 80s, and many have infirmities that have made living in their own homes too demanding. Many are single, for having lost a spouse is probably the best reason for being in a facility such as this. And many of the residents are here because their older children live in Reno, so a support system is immediately available for them.
As I’ve written before, leaving our home on the river was difficult. Not quite traumatic, but close. We had never been with people our age, and this has been an entirely new experience for us. Very quickly, we have learned what “old” means.
I am getting old—What does this mean now to me? –A challenge, for sure
Sy
Aging better then anyone I know. I love you.