Misconceptions of the elderly

 

people sitting beside table
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Misconceptions of the elderly in our society are rife. Some see the aged as a burden on the community. They are no longer contributing to the economy, so they are expendable in these times of a pandemic. Some speak of just “going back to normal.” If this means there are deaths among the aged population then so be it. They had pre-existing conditions they say, so they will die anyway.

 

“Our society must make it right and possible for old people not to fear the young or be deserted by them, for the test of a civilization is the way that it cares for its helpless members.” Pearl Buck (1892-1973)

 

grayscale photography of two laughing women
Photo by Willian Oliveira on Pexels.com

 

 

Is this how we show respect to the aged in our community? To those who have gone before us. They have worked all their lives. They ran businesses, paid taxes and raised families. They contributed to the economy. Here are some just throwing them on the scrap heap and disregarding them in their time of greatest need.

 

“Protecting the elderly, keeping them alive is keeping our memories alive in real life, it is to keep our past literally in today’s time.” Mehmet Murat ildan.

 

They deserve so much better than this. They deserve our utmost respect and to live out their lives with dignity. They are our parents and grandparents. One day when they are long gone we will be in their shoes. How would we like to be treated?

red lighted candle
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Blessings to all xx

“Never tease an old dog; he might have one bite left.” Robert A. Heinlein.

Ageing

smiling woman while holding camera
Say cheese!!!

 

This is an update on writing opportunities I’ve been working on recently. I’ve been unsuccessful in getting the internship I mentioned in an earlier post. However I can apply again in a few months time. The paper I wrote articles for is coming out today. I’m so excited to see my name in print. I feel like I’ve been waiting for ages. Here they are!

 

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“We don’t stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing.” George Bernard Shaw.

 

As the saying goes when one door closes another opens. I now have another opportunity opening up for me. I have applied to join a community volunteer program. I will be assigned to an aged care resident who would like someone to transcribe and write their memoir for them.

 

“The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes.” Frank Lloyd Wright.

 

This is a wonderful program that’s beneficial to the resident as well as the volunteer.   Aged care facilities can be a lonely place for residents especially if they don’t have family or friends or visitations are infrequent.

 

“Every year should teach you something valuable; whether you get the lesson is up to you. Every year brings you closer to expressing your whole and healed self.” Oprah Winfrey.

 

Contact with a volunteer gives them something to look forward to. Friendships can form. Social interaction is vital for everyone, but more so for the aged and marginalized. In this case I get to indulge in my passion (writing) while the resident gets to tell their story.  I’m looking forward to this. One day I will be elderly and I hope I have people around me who love and care for me. Those who will take the time to visit me. Companionship is so important as we get older.

“You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” George Burns.

 

grayscale photography of two laughing women
Companionship!

Blessings to all!