My Last Hurrah on Aging

Hurrah is an exclamation of enthusiasm or joy according to one dictionary. This could be joy for some because I won't be talking as much about it now, and enthusiasm for others because it is a pleasure (if not overdone) to say a kind word or two about aging.

We shudder at reports that the national health plan (which has a couple names) might lower the boom on seniors who will not be eligible for certain medical treatments. That would be a tragedy in many ways. One way would be the reduction of seniors loaded with experience, wisdom and savvy.

Of course not all seniors are wise and sagacious (discerning, not shrewd). Historically, small communities and huge empires alike suffer when the elderly are ignored. Or worse, despised or neglected. Have you noticed lately a small child cradled comfortably in a granny's lap soaking up her wisdom? Or a granddad, discretely pulling his grandchild aside to gently inform him that the words he just used were not only inappropriate but injurious?

If this becomes a disappearing act, woe unto us. If we seniors are banned from societal circles because the younger set is more wise and influential, look out. The Best Seller warns us not to ignore the elderly much less despise them. When this happens, it is unconscionable. If you are reading this, and you are considered elderly (a label you must determine yourself), rejoice. You and your wisdom, experience, savvy are needed. At times and places, desperately.

I can hear some muttering now. Old folks are a pain, sullen, despicable, obnoxious. Know what? Some are. Which is unfortunate. However, many of them can be changed with a little bit of a gentle comradely assistance, love and generosity. May the good Lord pity those who exploit elders in our society, who mismanage their dwindling funds, who deny their cries for attention and assistance. It happens. Too often. If seniors cannot help exploited seniors, who will? Non seniors, but maybe not particularly Uncle Sam. Remember, he is 236 years old.

Finally a closing thought. Yours truly has been penning Senior Moments for quite a few years. Some Moments get on paper, others online. This is the first time we have taken three consecutive columns to come to grips with Seniors in this fashion. I take full responsibility for my thoughts which have evolved over the years. My hope is that if you need to rethink the role of the older folk in your family, community or nation, it is well worth the effort. Seniors are an invaluable commodity (something good for which there is a demand). Amen!