Embracing Elderhood

The Three Stages of Healthy, Happy, and Meaningful Senior Years

By: Howard Englander

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eText | 16 September 2023 | Edition Number 1

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Undeniably, growing old is challenging; the physical pain and emotional angst are unrelenting. The tendency is to think there is nothing left to live for; no point in defying the unforgiving mortality chart. Embracing Elderhood offers an alternative to the pessimism that leads to 'dying before we die!' It loudly proclaims, being old is about chronology; being an Elder is about attitude. The book is a genuine contribution to the narrative about aging, redefining the concept of Elderhood by asking and answering three important questions.

Why am I here? With our lives well past the halfway point, we gain perspective, recognizing how childhood and chance predetermined the role we play in life. Now the question becomes, 'going forward, is this how I want to live my life?' The task is to exorcise the shame and regret of the past, finding forgiveness in your heart and redefining your relationship to family, money, society and your inner truth.

Why am I still here? We move from the corner office to a corner of the den, reduced in stature by a youth obsessed society, often burdened by illness and personal loss. We struggle to find a reason to get out of bed in the morning that is more significant than still another round of golf. Elders find motivation and purpose by making the behavioral change from self-service to being of-service, using their life's experiences as social service, making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Why was I here? After we have passed, will our loved ones remember us kindly? Will we have made a positive difference in people's lives? It's now or never to do what remains to be done and to finally confront any unresolved issues. We are the sages, the teachers, the philosophers with the perspective that only comes with age. But we must speak out. As elders we have an elemental responsibility to teach others and share our gifts.