Geez, I could almost be a resident!
At what age do you stop and think, “Wow, I can’t believe I’m this old!” What is so magical about turning a certain age? Why does it affect people in different ways? Most developed countries have accepted the chronological age of 65 years as a definition of ‘elderly’ or older person. But, don’t tell that to a 65 year old! They will reply that they are ’young’ for their age.
About 10 years ago, Arbutus Park Retirement Community lowered the eligibility age for services we provide to 62 years old. This was done to accommodate the newly arrived “baby-boomers” who were coming of age in our surrounding areas at that time. And, 10 years ago, I thought nothing of it.
But, during the past year I turned 60 years old, and now it’s a whole new ballgame. 62 has taken on a whole new meaning, and I don’t even want to start thinking about 65 years old! But I must! Although age is relative to your way of thinking, time doesn’t stop. All of a sudden my whole world seems to be changing. Today’s music is starting to sound strange to me. I’m noticing products in the grocery store that I wouldn’t have given a second thought. Can anyone spell G-E-R-I-T-O-L.
Arbutus Park Retirement Community’s new mantra is “Active Retirement Living,” and that is exactly what everyone should strive to do. As I see our residents bounding about the manor and campus I am encouraged that age 60 and beyond is what you make it out to be. No one should surrender to their age and I don’t plan to let age define me. So bring on 70-80-90! Well, maybe. – rw
Contributor: Rick Wilson is the Administrator at Arbutus