Exploring the Meaning of 'Old': A Personal Reflection and Insights
Age is a concept that fluctuates with time and personal experiences. The word 'old' can mean different things to different people. As I reflect on my journey, I find that the definition of 'old' is subjective and highly individual.
Personal Reflection on Aging
Ageing is a continuous process of learning and adjusting to new challenges. I turn 70 this year, and while I have faced a multitude of physical and life experiences, I am constantly engaging in new ventures. For instance, I have embraced Spanish language classes and even ventured into learning American Sign Language, which is a unique addition to my skill set as no one at my church does it. Walking a mile daily keeps me on my feet and energized. For me, old age is glorious, filled with time to grow and achieve new goals.
Challenging Traditional Definitions of 'Old'
There are various definitions of the term 'old'. One popular definition is reaching 80 years of age, highlighted in the dictionary. However, being 'old' is not solely determined by chronological age. Another interpretation is that one is as old as they feel, suggesting a psychosocial aspect to the concept of age.
For instance, I know a 94-year-old lady with ample knowledge about computers, who is not only proficient but also active in other areas of life. On the other hand, another 71-year-old lady is frequently unwell, which can also contribute to a perception of 'old age'. Personal definitions of old age can vary widely, underscoring the importance of individual experiences and perceptions.
Medical and Social Definitions of Elderly Age
The medical and social sectors have specific definitions for the elderly. Many medical associations and clinical practice guidelines consider individuals older than 65 years to be in the elderly category. The United Nations, however, defines an 'elderly person' as one above the age of 60 years.
These definitions serve practical purposes and have wide acceptance. However, they do not fully encapsulate the essence of what it means to be elderly. Only the elderly themselves can truly define their stage in life and age.
Personal Experiences and Definitions of Elderly Age
Reflecting on my own age, I realized that 'elderly' is a term that should be redefined by the elderly themselves. Medically, I may be 83, but I am still very active and eager to explore new horizons. The concept of 'elderly' or 'old age' often refers to the inability to perform physical feats, but for me, it is a stage of life where I can offer wisdom, guidance, and respect to my family and society.
Facing Challenges in Old Age
Age brings its set of challenges, which can be physical, psychological, and social. To understand and tackle these challenges, one might find it useful to read the book on how to face the challenges while growing old. This knowledge can empower individuals to navigate through these transitions more gracefully.
I look forward to finding the person who coined the term 'elderly', as I believe they need to be reassessed. The term does not truly capture the essence of being elderly, which, in my view, is a time of respect, blessings, and fulfillment. Being elderly does not solely mean slowing down or facing limitations; it can also symbolize a period of contentment, wisdom, and continued growth.