I turned 60 this year. I recall my younger days when I would ride my bike for 30 miles and never break a sweat. And oh how my knees were like well-oiled hinges. As I have aged, I can tell a slight difference, although I often use a phrase in my head that says, “Power through it” and I keep going. I don’t own a couch as an example. Think about it. A couch absorbs you and you get stuck to it. A couch keeps a “butt in a seat” and doesn’t invite movement! My suggestion? Fight age not only physically but mentally.
A recent University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging reflects this battle, especially against societal presumptions about older adults. It’s called “ageism,” which is any form of discrimination, prejudice or stereotyping based on age. This national sample of adults age 50-80 found that 82% reported regularly experiencing ageism in their daily lives. This included hearing, seeing, or reading jokes about old age, or things suggesting that ageing is somehow unattractive or undesirable.
Nearly half experienced ageism in their interpersonal interactions. Yes, I have a problem using my computer and cell phone at times – who the heck doesn’t?! Sometimes I have difficulty hearing or seeing everything within view. But guess what? So do younger folks, including some of our interns! Misery, as they say, likes company. Unfortunately, the poll found that 36% believe feeling lonely, sad, or worried is a normal part of getting older. Again, my friends, this is not the exclusive realm of older folks, as we well know!
So look in the mirror EVERY DAY and say, even if you have aches and joint pain, that you will power through it within reason. And stay mentally positive. Force yourself to smile and urge yourself to seize the day. Try it! Up next some newsy tidbits on insurance, consumer protection, real estate, and transparency in local spending.
LMA Newsletter of 8-17-20
