Written By Alan Good
What are you hearing these days? What are you hearing from those nearest you, but also, what are you hearing from yourself? These thoughts may tell you that you are done, you’re retired so off you go to spend your remaining days golfing or sitting alone.
Negative age stereotypes color actions and judgments toward seniors and can influence how we—seniors—think about ourselves. These thoughts, if they are not counteracted, can impact how we feel and act. Take mental agility in a senor. Studies suggest that the all too commonly accepted stereotype, that the brain inevitably deteriorates as we get older, is false.
Rather than replay, “I am old and not what I was”, try, “I am alive. I can move and do more than I thought I could”. It is impossible to hold opposite thoughts in mind at the same time. Remember the word, “neuroplasticity”, or how the brain can change in response to stimuli? When you change your thoughts, you will change how you feel, and eventually how your body responds.
In some countries seniors are revered as full of knowledge and wisdom, not to mention keepers of the family lore and history. In Canada, seniors are placed in “homes for the elderly” and perhaps forgotten by some.
But we (seniors) generally are healthier, more active and, hopefully, more in tune with today’s issues and events then ever before. We walk, swim, and generally move better. A new hip or knee can revitalize us and offer even more active years. Exercise classes, yoga, or some other physical regimen can add years—years filled with energy and less wrinkles.
You have more to offer. Sharing wisdom from our experiences can help others and provide usefulness to us. You say you can’t walk? We can speak positively; we can lift others. The tongue has the power of life, and death, according to the Proverbs. We can build someone up or tear them down.
Take staying in the hospital for some treatment or recovery, as an example. People helping us, nurses, doctors, home care support, may be most vulnerable to our words, and need them most. People sensitive to other’s opinions feel it most when we speak. Most caregivers are that—or should be—sensitive to our needs and listening.
What a great time to encourage someone. Instead of thinking about ourselves—our situation—we can provide something to others. If we are the listeners, we can give something back. Kindness and love, compassion should be our go-to attitude, in all situations.
Even in a hospital bed, a patient can provide a word. Besides encouragement and praise—as opposed to complaints and bickering—we can uplift medical support staff who are on their feet through entire shifts. At times where I’ve been in a hospital bed, besides thanking those who have supported me and aided in my wellness, making them laugh has been what has taken me through those times.
Perhaps you find you have free time. You can volunteer at hospitals, schools supporting pupils in learning, and places such at The Crest Support Services or Ailsa Craig’s Thrift Shop. Age Friendly London, a website geared to the needs of seniors, offers newsletters on where seniors can meet, volunteer, and learn.
C.S. Lewis stated, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
