Many people wonder why older generations often express stronger patriotism than younger ones. Some chalk it up to life experience, others to cultural shifts, and still others—quite loudly—to what they see as ideological drift in modern education (AKA indoctrination, brainwashing, and removing God from the classroom). Whatever the cause, the divide is real, and it’s…
This last week, while playing golf with some of my buddies, it came to my attention that most of our conversations centered around our latest surgery, how many funerals we attended last month or what body part did not seem to be working properly. There comes a time in life when a person begins to…
It is no secret that staying active is important for senior citizens. Personally, I have it on my calendar to either be at the gym or play golf at least six days a week (Notice I said “on the calendar”). However, these activities don’t necessarily prepare you for a strong aerobic exercise event. And that’s…
I visited Margaret’s house on the invitation of her eldest daughter, Janine. She greeted me at the front door and led me back to the sitting room, where her mother, Margaret, sat staring out the window. Janine had mentioned in her phone conversation that Margaret felt isolated and lonely. She had become increasingly detached from…
During my early career as an administrator for a large assisted-living community, I encountered a distressing incident involving an elderly woman. One night, she accidentally rolled off her bed and became trapped between it and the wall. She lay there for hours, unable to free herself. I can only imagine the terror and helplessness she…
Aging brings with it crucial decisions regarding health and personal care for seniors. The following account, based on a true story with identities altered for confidentiality, illustrates the potential pitfalls in caregiver oversight. Sharmane was highly praised by the home care agency manager as a standout caregiver. She was assigned to assist a woman with…