Reader comments
Gray Area: Bingo and the meaning of life

In a country that worships youth, we haven't been too great at dealing with aging, which will occur differently for all of us.

I have a parent in a retirement home in another state. The staff there is great and many activities are provided. Some seniors do enjoy games and activities, others will not participate. Depression is really a problem, but so is overmedicating.

Older residents who have dementia can be difficult to care for. Residents who have lost eyesight and hearing but remain alert can experience depression because they can't do much. How would you feel if your mind were still capable but you could no longer drive, cook your own meals, or have energy to work at something useful? What if you couldn't see AND hear?

It is challenging to care for the elderly, and it is as challenging for the elderly themselves to deal with their situation.

As i return home to England once a year i notice the difference in activities for the aging.In England they have many more organized activities for the seniors of all abilities.Being invited along with my mother on several occasions (she is 84 years).We attended day trips out with the physically handicapped(she is just a volunteer) ,Women Institute where there were different activities and lectures,Retirement meetings,Concerts,lectures at local colleges for the aged, even college courses.Being involved at Charity Shops is common for the elderly.They seem to start these activities earlier(50's),and so benefit from the association and learn to adapt to the oncoming train.My mother has been taking courses in Physics, Math, Music Appreciation and Archeology this year,to keep herself active and young.The friendships developed help as they get older and their needs are greater.We cannot just rely on Church related activities here and hope for the best when they go into a nursing home.WE need better group associations at a younger level and more volunteer groups to help with the transition.