Age is more than a number. It’s your body, your mind, your perspective and connectedness. As more seniors reach retirement age and “experienced seniors” are living longer, we’re seeing a phenomenon unlike any in recent modern history. The “Greatest Generation” and the “Baby Boomers” have melded together to form one united “Senior Population”. No two more unlikely groups have shared the same stage together. The oldest of the retirees, dubbed “The Greatest Generation,” are conservative, having lived through a depression and war. They are patriotic, service oriented and assign self-value to what they can contribute. They are proud, independent and believe in hard work and sacrifice. The youngest members of the senior spectrum are from the “Me Generation.” They’ve broken conventional rules, sought out careers and cultural change, opposed war and government, became educated, and independent. They are protective, confident, curious, suspicious and resistant to aging. They have achieved great strides in conventional and alternative medicine, taken up exercise and traveled far from home to embrace new ways of living. Their expectations of retirement are high.
If there’s one truth becoming apparent as the retired population grows, it’s that one size most certainly doesn’t fit all. So how do they stay happy? A few common traits can ensure happiness no matter what your physical age or health: Perspective, adaptability and connectedness. 65 Senior Street is committed to helping seniors stay engaged, to helping professionals identify simple ways to increase communication and wellness of their senior patients, and to help families find the care resources they need to support their loved ones. The site is open to questions, comments and ideas that further the goal of successful aging.
Physical Wellbeing
Put ten average 70 year olds in a room together and it will be difficult to find two who are alike. Some are physically fit due to genes and lifestyle. Others are struggling with arthritis, diabetes or heart issues. Still others are suffering early memory loss. Read more:
Cognitive Wellbeing
So your body is managing to get you where you need to go but nothing seems interesting. Been there, done that. Nothing seems new anymore. Is this all there is? Read more:
Emotional Wellbeing
Still grumpy or sad? Find out why. Loneliness, loss, regret and remorse are killers. They serve no good purpose past helping identify what we might need to change. It’s time to get rid of them and start living. Read more:
Educate yourself and share information with others. Ignoring symptoms of concern in yourself or others is never a good idea. Pain that worsens, memory lapses, difficulty finding words or performing routine tasks, sleep problems and digestive problems should be checked out early. More often than not, they can improve with treatment. For more serious issues, early intervention can improve outcomes significantly. Don’t be afraid to talk with someone about your concerns. We all want privacy when dealing with difficult issues but they are not meant to be handled alone. It’s okay to ask for or offer help without intruding on privacy. Make sure your own health information, insurance information, emergency contact information and power of attorney are accessible in an emergency. If you don’t have your legal documents in order, now is the time to take care of that to ensure you get the care you need and want.
