Growing Old Gracefully

How do you grow old gracefully?  Is there a universal blueprint for growing old gracefully?  Or does it vary from culture to culture?  Do societal norms play a major factor in  a person's third phase journey in life, or is it an individual preference.

The average life expectancy in the developed world is about eighty(80) years old.  Now, that is a long way to go.  The average retirement age is around sixty-two(62) years old.  So, a retiree has some twenty(20) odd years to fill his retirement days. 

Singapore, an island nation that has gone from a third(3rd) world country in the 1960's to a first(1st) world city-state some fifty(50) years later, is grappling with the issues of an ageing population.  By the year 2030, one(1) in five(5) Singaporeans will be aged sixty-five(65) years and above,  according to a survey by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports.   In May 2007, an organisation called The Council for Third Age was set up. It's mission - to promote active ageing.  On the national level, the government  have planned and are putting in place policies to help senior citizens.   On the family aspect, should the elderly be dependant on their children?  In the workplace, will employers continue to re-employ, or even consider employing, older workers? 

Growing old gracefully is to be independent, healthy and leading an active life.  Being financially secure is an added bonus - either still remaining employed or having a nice retirement egg-nest.  Living in your own home, too, will give you freedom of space, independence and a sense of self-esteem.  Self-esteem - this is another factor that will help in growing old gracefully.   The golden years should be spent meaningfully.  Having hobbies or be active in community work will definitely help to fill those days.  Be actively involved in family-oriented activities will strengthen bonds, thus, driving home the message that growing old is not a burden.   To grow old is just another phase in one's life.  Sharing life experiences will allow memories to come back and mental alertness is a good tool to remain graceful through the golden years.    (Helping to look after the grandchildren is definitely not one of them.  Maybe occassionally - playing with the grandchildren will boost up the energy level).  

Growing old gracefully with the one you love, your spouse, and sailing the golden pond together is Life's ultimate bliss.


Yet, how many of us, in our golden years, will be able to grow old gracefully and exit this world with dignity?