According to gerontologists getting older maybe rife with emotional landmines, including fears of losing one's independence or getting a serious illness. Ageing gracefully isn't always easy but attitude matters a lot and can make a big difference.
"The key to successful ageing includes accepting changes and finding meaningful activities."
For some reason it seems that our society is obsessed with pointing out negative aspects of ageing;
A leading gerontologist suggests that we shouldn’t get "bogged down in all the hype about ageing. Once you start thinking about it, it can drive you mad. There's nothing you can do; the clock is going to tick away."
Of course, not all seniors are pessimistic and accepting that your life won't stay the same makes it much easier to manage the day to day activities.
If you live until you're 95 years old, you're probably not going to be living alone in a beautiful apartment and driving your car to the supermarket or picking up your dry cleaning or walking alone along the beach or to the park. If you want to do all these activities and you have organised how you will manage them ahead of time it will be much easier to accept for you and your family. A leading expert in aged wrote the following.
"To age gracefully, one needs to anticipate the changes that are inevitable”.
People need to think about these natural changes and perhaps their health status as part of ageing. This can really minimise a lot of stress and strain in their lives. People who do not plan for these changes can become depressed as they have not anticipated the changes to their lives and are unable to navigate the emotional challenges in order to age gracefully.
Ageing can bring hardships, but the old are survivors and with age comes wisdom, resilience and a mature perspective. Growing old gracefully is an accomplishment and it is important to continue to find things that are important to you like hobbies, learning new things and enjoying activities like concerts, movies, theatre or literature.
At careforfamily.com.au we can help you plan, find out where your passions lie and set meaningful goals. This way the important things are out in front of you and you can focus on all those purposeful activities.
With the support of our caring, professional care workers and nurses, Care for Family can make the challenge of ageing gracefully so much easier. We will continue to find all the things that are important to you whilst remaining in the comfort and familiarity of your own home.
Don't wait until you urgently need assistance, enquire now at careforfamily.com.au
1. What is the key to ageing gracefully?
The key is to have a positive attitude. This involves accepting that changes are a natural part of life and actively finding meaningful activities and hobbies that bring you joy and a sense of purpose.
2. Why is planning for the future so important for ageing well?
Planning for inevitable changes, such as needing help with transport or daily tasks, can minimise a lot of stress and emotional strain later on. People who don't anticipate these changes can become overwhelmed and depressed when they are no longer able to manage on their own.
3. What are some of the positive aspects of getting older?
With age comes wisdom, resilience, and a more mature perspective on life. It frames older people as survivors who have navigated many of life's challenges.
4. How can I maintain a sense of purpose as I age?
You can maintain purpose by continuing to find and engage in things that are important to you. This could include pursuing hobbies, learning new skills, or enjoying cultural activities like concerts, movies, theatre, and literature.
5. What if I find it hard to accept the changes that come with ageing?
Acceptance is crucial and that professional support can help. By working with a care provider, you can plan for the future and focus on the purposeful activities that matter most to you, which can make accepting changes much easier.