by Flora Foltz At 95, getting older does have its challenges, I have found, not just my physical health. Retired, no work to go to, no husband or children to care for, what do I do?
For me, it is important to stay busy and involved with friends and family. I’m the youngest of eleven, all the others are gone. I’m a widow, mother of two, grandmother of four, and great-grandmother of seven. Besides my children and grandchildren, there are many nieces and nephews who appreciate getting birthday cards, emails or phone calls from their old Aunt. I’m a retired educator. Fortunately, I can still drive to meet former colleagues and friends for lunch, attend local events, movies and activities at the Senior Center, go on bus day trips, etc. I sometimes have to be the 'social secretary' as other older friends may need a push. I have made new friends, learned a lot and felt like I was contributing by volunteering at the hospital, History Museum, Church and other places. But it is not always easy, especially when you lose friends you have been close to or have traveled with. Or when you have one with dementia who doesn't remember you. Makes you sad, but you grieve and go on. Learning to be satisfied and happy alone is crucial. Some days you will feel lonely and alone and need a self-talk reminding yourself of your blessings. Baking to eat and share with friends and neighbors, reading, gardening, or just watching happy Hallmark movies is a good thing! Naps are good, too. They give me the energy I need to keep going! And that’s what matters.
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AuthorsOur blog features perspectives on aging from a multi-generational group of authors who share their unique point of view on the question, "What does it mean to age well?" Archives
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