Aging is a process that we can’t avoid. The changes that take place are inevitable. We can accept them optimistically or be
discouraged by them. Our attitudes about
aging are often closely related to the physical and mental health that we
experience.
I interviewed two women.
One was 87, and one was 92. Their
feelings about aging seemed to be significantly affected by the physical
problems that they have. Even though
they’re no longer able to do all of the things that they used to do in terms of
social activities and leisure activities, the most difficult aspect for them is
not being as independent as they previously were.
One woman lives alone, and although she mostly lives independently,
she no longer drives. Someone takes her
to the places where she needs to go, including to stores to do her shopping. The other woman depends on someone to cook
her meals and help her with ADLs such as toileting, bathing, and dressing.
These women still have a very good outlook, regardless of
the challenges that they’ve had. Both of
them said that they lead very full lives and although, like most people, they
do have some regrets, overall they’re satisfied with their lives. Both of them have stayed as active as
possible. They’ve stayed connected to
family and friends on a daily basis instead of isolating themselves, which
could lead to depression.
When I first started to write this blog, I thought about a
movie that I saw many years ago, “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,” starring
Clint Eastwood. I don’t remember much
about the movie, but the title fits very well with this discussion
question. As we age, we have to take not
only the good but also the bad and the ugly.
I thought about how Clint has aged since making that
movie. He’s 82 and continues to make
movies. I believe that his active
lifestyle has helped him to age well.
There are good things about aging. For example, most people don’t have to work
as much, and they have more time to spend with family and friends. Things about aging that could be considered
bad include a variety of aches, pains, and health problems. In terms of the ugly, many people aren’t
happy about the wrinkles and the grey hair that they find when they look in the
mirror.
In spite of the problems of aging, we can always hope that
the good aspects will outweigh the bad and the ugly.
If you want to read more about Clint and the many activities in which he has participated, you can visit this link:
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