This month we discussed three topics:
despite our best efforts our bodies are going to age
our quality of life may hinge on aspects not seen by others
we can remain ourselves even if medical issues arise
While those topics seem different on the surface, they share a common thread: maintaining dignity and self-respect in our later years by treating ourselves kindly, taking care of the whole self, and remembering that we are still us despite any medical issues that arise.
The question for today’s pop-up discussion is this:
What one thing can we begin doing today to support our overall sense of well-being, independence, and life satisfaction?
A few guidelines:
Comments are friendly and supportive.
I reserve the right to delete posts if necessary.
I’m no longer a licensed counselor nor am I a medical professional, so I offer no advice, only thoughts based on my experience.
Let’s get started, and welcome! Ready?
It’s time for another pop-up discussion - the topic is what can do beginning today to support our overall sense of well-being, independence, and life satisfaction as we get older.
Great question! For me, the one thing that I already do routinely is maintain intergenerational relationships.
I have watched Mom’s friends move away to the mainland, some for medical care, others to be near family who can support them. Another is now in assisted living because of dementia problems.
Mom and I co-own a chocolate farm on the Big Island of Hawaii. She spends most of her year there and used to have a very vibrant and engaged circle of friends. Now she fully acknowledges that she spends too much time alone. It is affecting more than just her emotional state, her cognition weakens. And it’s very subtle, but I noticed for the first few days I’m there with her. She’s very jumpy and she can’t process information as quickly. It passes, and I don’t see any sign of cognitive impairment. But the lack of conversation is very much a missing element in the balance of her life.
The beauty of intergenerational relationships beyond just having people around after I’ve outlived most of my friends is staying more relevant. Being challenged by different ideas and understanding how other people use modern technology and other changes in society.