Getting older and older.

AuthorKreyche, Gerald F.
PositionPARTING THOUGHTS

GETTING OLD IS A ONE-TIME experience, so make the most of it--and remember, getting old is not for sissies. Regardless of euphemisms such as senior citizens, gray panthers, golden agers, etc., the fact is when you're old, you're old! The important thing is to grow old gracefully and with as little anxiety as possible. It has its highlights and good points, such as escape from the nearly unending hustle-bustle of younger years when you were still trying to "make it." Many can take pleasure in seeing their children as adults and enjoy the biblical blessing of seeing one's children's children--and don't forget those senior discounts. One can take gratitude at reaching whatever age one has reached. Above all, remember the French actor Maurice Chevalier's response to the question as to how it felt to be getting older. He replied, "Not bad, when one considers the alternative."

As with any other stage of life, there are pitfalls to be avoided and advice to be garnered. There are numerous anxieties that accompany old age, but the anticipation of these can reduce them or do away with them altogether. It is easier to confront the days ahead when one knows what they are about. Hence, this essay of purely gratuitous advice that may make old age less a "terra incognita," as it is for many.

First of all, once retired, by and large, one should not worry about saving money for the future--the future is now. Retirement automatically lessens one's expenses such as travel to and from work, new wardrobes, etc. One might think about moving into a smaller house that is less expensive and easier to maintain. It's true that one must husband one's resources, but that doesn't preclude hiring a cleaning lady or paying a teenager to cut the lawn or clean the gutters.

Do not be embarrassed at taking an afternoon nap. You still have all the energies of past years--up to noontime, that is, when most of us conk out. Doctors tell us that sleep is good for building up our immune system. (Might one add here, "If some is good, more is better"?) Those old codgers who hate the word "nap" and who eschew nap-taking probably are getting in afternoon siesta time, except that its called dozing in front of the TV. This brings to mind Shakespeare's remark about "Would a rose smell less sweet if called by any other name?"

Purchase some new items of clothing once in a while. Don't wear things until they wear out, as they probably will outlast you. A new blouse, skirt, or shirt and pair...

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