Today was really a special day at my volunteer gig with the elderly. I mean, I took the time to really talk to several of the residents, asking tons of questions. And I got to meet some of their family members. I always enjoy meeting their children, siblings and friends.
One of the residents, Ruth, is moving out tomorrow. Her beautiful daughter was there today, moving some of Ruth's things. Her daughter's husband and young daughter were also there. I like talking to him, too. Anyway, while helping Ruth's daughter take a box out to her car, I got a chance to learn more about why her mother is being moved. Apparently, the residence no longer believes it's equipped to care for Ruth the way she needs most. She has dementia, or Alzheimer's, and she's a wanderer. Truth be told, I suspect Ruth needs to be on the Alzheimer's floor, but there probably isn't available room.
I wish Ruth well, and told her daughter I'm gonna pay Ruth at least one visit at her new residence. Maybe she'll recognize me. Maybe not. Either way, I'm gonna visit because I know that would make her daughter and son-in-law feel good. And, dangit, I like making folks feel good.
When I was in my 20s and 30s, hell, even in my early 40s, I didn't really think about growing old. Or being old. But now...well, now, aging is as real to me as every breath I take. It's my goal to embrace the aging process with as much grace and acceptance as possible. Keeping myself as healthy as possible is at the top of my list of Things To Do. At present, I'm on a cholesterol-lowering medication, a daily baby aspirin, and on the edge of prediabetes. So, I've got my work cut out for me. I want a healthy heart and lean and mean frame. Simple as that.
Everything must change.
And everybody learns that fact.
If they live long enough.
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