Retirement
In our culture, professional and private lives are closely tied together, which can make retirement a period of major physical and emotional adjustment. Many professionals feel a loss of identity upon retiring. It may help to have them apply their skills in new ways, such as volunteering or mentoring. But retirement should also be embraced as an opportunity to see and try new things.
Loss and loneliness
Unfortunately, loss comes more frequently with age, yet coping with it doesn’t get easier. Grieving is an important way to deal with loss, and talking can help. When loss hits close to home, make sure you have the support you need, and offer yours in return. Loneliness often follows loss, and can sometimes lead to depression. One in nine Person thinks depression is not a mental illness, and one in two thinks it’s not a serious condition. As a result, depression is far too often ignored and untreated. If someone you know is showing signs of depression – avoiding social contact, loss of interest in activities, sleeping more or less than usual – encourage him or her to seek professional help.
Caring for aging parent
Providing care to an aging parent is a major undertaking that can be demanding for both the caregiver and receiver.
For the caregiver: Be sure to consider your expectations, capabilities, and limitations upfront. For example, is it a short-term or long-term arrangement? What are the cost? Is community assistance available to help you? And, will it bring the family closer or drive a wedge between it?
For aging parent: How do you feel about the arrangement? Will you able to retain your independence, which is a key to good mental health? And what alternatives are available that may be comparable or better?
If you need help dealing with age-related issues, contact a Seniors’ community organization, or talk to your doctor. They can help you find appropriate programs and support.
I was born and raised in a rural area in Grand Falls NB. It was a great life on the farm, even though I became a design draftsman, many times I would stop drafting for a while and worked for a summer on the farm. You are invited to visit my website rudyshealthproducts.com
