My Unexpected Path to Becoming a Professional Oldster

In my sixties, I wrote Getting Old—a book about my early experiences with aging. Though I wasn't "very old" yet, I wanted to confront the reality head-on. The book's success led to speaking engagements, unintentionally making me a "professional oldster." After a break, I've returned to this inevitable journey we all face.

The Relentless March of Time

You can pause thinking about aging, but you can't stop the process
Each day leaves its mark physically and emotionally
Every stage brings new gates to pass through
Curiosity is your best companion on this journey

"Age may wrinkle the face, but lack of enthusiasm wrinkles the soul." — Danish Proverb

Real Stories of Aging Gracefully

Lessons From a Knee Replacement

My double knee replacement at 71 offered profound insights:
- Experienced temporary frailty like many elderly face permanently
- Met incredible caregivers from around the world (Honduras, Tanzania, Afghanistan)
- Learned the power of human connection in vulnerable moments

Wisdom From the 90s Club

When I asked 93-year-old Nancy about being "really old," she surprised me:
- Only recently began considering herself old
- At 92, she was still taking buses across New York and visiting museums daily
- Her secrets:
- A lust for life
- Daily engagement with the world (reading the NY Times without glasses!)
- Artistic passion that provides complete absorption
- Endless curiosity about people's stories

The Dancing Spirit at 74

My friend Frieda, 74 with Parkinson's and financial worries, shows how attitude matters:
- Still dresses up and dances until midnight (with two artificial hips and one knee)
- Believes "happiness is overrated"—focus on living instead
- Maintains vibrant social connections despite challenges

Overcoming the Weight of Regret

The Chains We Carry

In meditation, I visualized:
- Physical weight of past mistakes dragging me down
- Specific regrets (harsh words, neglected relationships) as literal chains
- The liberating moment of choosing to drop them

The Happiness Paradox

Research shows surprising trends:
- Happiness increases significantly after 60
- People in their 70s-80s report highest life satisfaction
- My personal realization: I'd crossed a happiness threshold without noticing

The Freedom of Letting Go

What We Release With Age

Regrets about past mistakes
Unfulfilled ambitions
Excessive self-concern
The constant pursuit of happiness

What We Gain

Deeper capacity for love
Greater appreciation for simple moments
Reduced ego interference in relationships
Ability to be present without labels

Timeless Moments That Defy Age

You're neither old nor young when:
- Savoring your morning coffee
- Watching swans take flight with a friend
- Cooking a favorite meal
- Creating something for loved ones

These experiences remind us: we're simply alive. The numbers matter less than how we fill our days with meaning and connection.

Articles tagged "positive-aging"

Articles tagged "positive-aging"

Embracing Aging: Wisdom for a Fulfilling Life After 70