Getting older happens to everyone, but it can be experienced in different ways and can be a very positive experience. It affects everyone individually, and our attitude has a lot to do with his we go through life.
Time marches on
Undoubtedly, we have heard on more than one occasion that time marches on, meaning that nothing in life is static. We are in a constant state of change, even if it’s not immediately obvious to us.
As we get older, our physical, sensory, and lifestyle needs are likely to change. Our vision, hearing, gait, stride, balance, and pace of living may lessen a degree or change in subtle ways, but our homes still should be able to accommodate us so that the changes we are experiencing in our lives are relatively seamless. When there is a noticeable conflict between what we need our homes to provide for us and what they actually allow us to do, this is the time for action.
Notice that our concept of aging and what is old varies by what we’re discussing. Some of us do not like to be described or thought of as old, and the idea of aging may not seem that pleasant to our ears. Nevertheless, not everyone gets to enjoy old age so those of us who attain it should embrace it and welcome it even if we have various challenges.
Relating to our homes
If we were to ask people how well their home can serve their needs, we might get a mixed response. This would be especially true if we asked them prior to spending a prolonged period of time in their homes due to COVID Now that they’ve had an opportunity to see what their homes can provide and how they can live in them for many hours a day (if not the entire day), they either love their homes even more or are at a noticeable stage of conflict with their homes. Now, the response likely would be more positive – at least for how well they like their homes.
Hopefully, they do like their homes even if they have some particular aspects that could be improved. Even this is the case, we have a great opportunity to help make things better for them. Whether we will be faced with another shelter in place situation at some time, or an illness or injury confines a person to their home, or they have reached a stage in life where remaining at home and aging in place for the balance of their life is what they want or need to do, having a home that provides the safety, comfort, and mobility that someone deserves is our objective.
Getting older
Everything ages, but our concept of aging and what is old varies by what we’re discussing. Some of us do not like to be described or thought of as old, and the idea of aging may not seem that pleasant to our ears. Nevertheless, not everyone gets to enjoy old age so those of us who attain it should embrace it and welcome it even if we have various challenges.
While we enthusiastically talk about items that attain a higher value with age – wine, whiskey, cheese, artwork, cigars, and the like. We can be more valuable as we get older as well. Part of it is our attitude, tempered by our ability, and part of it is remaining engaged in life.
Aging in place applies to all of us, and even if we don’t subscribe to it, it’s still happening.