April 2019 – Never Too Old

When I was working in corporate America, one of my favorite bosses had a saying that I think of more and more these days.  “Getting old is not for sissies.”

It seems impossible, but I’m working on my 80th year.  I don’t know where the time went, but I look around me and realize how blessed I am.  Many people my age are either helpless, homeless, sick, or senseless; maybe all four.

I’m the first to admit that I have not always been kind to my body, and as a result, I now have a few physical complaints, but I was born with good genes.  That was not my doing; it was strictly being blessed with the parents who gave me life.  They were extraordinary people.  My dad was not kind to his body either, and he died of coronary thrombosis at age 51.  But I’ve been told that I have his mind.  Thank you, Lord.  Valedictorian in his class of 1929, he breezed through school with the strength of an eagle.

My mom was an average student.  However, she excelled in the graces of gentleness, kindness, compassion, and love.  I hope to shadow a few of her beautiful qualities also.  I know for sure that you could never have a better person on your side to encourage and support your dreams!

One thing about youth… you think it will last forever, but if you live long enough, you will get old, and like me, you will wonder where the time went.  And you may wonder why you didn’t pursue something that you would have enjoyed doing, something you may be passionate about.  That is what this month’s blog is about.  If there is something you have wanted to accomplish that you have not yet accomplished, do it now!

You are never too old to learn something new.  I have learned more in the last ten years of my life than I did in the previous 60 years!  Because I try to keep my brain active!  Honestly, one of the progressions of aging that I have tried very hard to avoid is dementia. I think I am more afraid of dementia than I am cancer.

As dementia progresses, it can have a huge impact on the ability to function independently. It’s a major cause of disability for older adults, and places an emotional and financial burden on families and caregivers.  The World Health Organization says that 47.5 million people around the world are living with dementia.

So, my message for you… find out all you can about the symptoms, preventatives, exercises, games, puzzles, changes in food, and diet supplements that may take better care of  your brain.  You are never too old to do the right thing for your own health and well-being.  The old saying, “use it or lose it” is one I try to live by.

Blessings,

Sandra