Older people should be praised every day of the year. Some have brought up families and pursued successful careers; others have focused solely on developing their professional skills and can boast of the successes they have brought to their organisations and themselves. Others have remained resolutely freelance and have managed successfully to enrich their working lives and the lives of others. Some haven’t worked – all should be valued.
For many of these busy, experienced and invaluable people, retirement can bring the realisation that a life without constant social engagement, a daily mission or even simply going to work can be isolating.
Community values
The Centre for Ageing Better suggests that “one in twenty people aged 50 and over often or always feel lonely”. This is why the centre is pushing hard to “recognise both the opportunities and challenges of ageing populations while promoting the development of a society that works for people of all ages”.
Its interactive map shows which areas in the UK are members of the Age-friendly Communities network. Norwich is recognised as an age-friendly city. Across the UK, the network now includes more than 110 places, representing more than 30 million people.
Social engagement
For those who are able to get out and about, leaving the house can provide opportunities for engagement. Whether it’s a trip to the local shop or simply a stroll in the garden, you’re moving, observing and maybe chatting.
The shop could open up a whole host of adventures, as these often have noticeboards signposting a plethora of opportunities. Tai Chi in the local park, a community clean-up or digital lessons at a local library can create a whole landscape of possibilities.
The world for an older person should enhance skills, suggest new possibilities and help people realise that their new bestie doesn’t have to be their doctor. For example, you can advise a younger person asking for help in graphic design, assist with organisational skills or simply talk to someone who needs a friend and inspire confidence. Older people have the experience that matters.
Retirement
For some, not all by any means, the prospect of retirement can appear bleak. Yes, it will be wonderful not to have to face the perennially ineffective and grumpy manager, but what about the intergenerational discourse that is part and parcel of contemporary workplace life?
Also, how are you expected to travel, heat your home or just chill at a gig or London art gallery if your pension is modest and you want to live – not simply exist? Your community may have the answers, or at least suggestions.
Families can be a mixed blessing. Some members may start to regard visiting an older relative as an encumbrance rather than a pleasure; others may regard granny or grandpa as an extension of a daily babysitting service. We choose our friends, not our family. Make your choices.
Growing older is a natural process
One minute you were gigging, flirting, learning and even trying to solve a huge variety of artistic or scientific problems – the next, you’re having to embrace a different way of life, and it can be scary.
Some love the lack of constraints and are lucky enough not to be burdened by health challenges. Others are worried about finance, mobility and lack of interaction. There isn’t a magic wand, but mixing with younger people can help, whether you live in a rural or urban environment.
Age is a rite of passage. Spirits need to be lifted, donning the glad rags and stepping out has to be embraced, and events on your doorstep can make this happen. Go for it!
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