Growing old gracefully without depression

CSD

This is a great topic. I worked until I was 64 when spinal injury forced me to retire. I had always thought of retirement as a time when I could indulge in my interests of walking, jogging, gardening, visiting galleries and museums.

Suddenly I was unable to do any of that. Even the simplest tasks take so much longer and, yes, I still do become quite frustrated at times. The worst bit is having to pay someone to do the garden or simple household repairs.

My life-line was my home computer which kept me in touch with family (all of whom are overseas) and friends. I volunteered and used my computer to write letters and reports for a not for profit, occasionally visiting the organisation.

Looking objectively at the ageing process, I think I could honestly say that I wasn't warned about health and mobility issues and, even if I had been I probably wouldn't have believed it would happen to me. Also, the huge drop in income was difficult to manage when offsetting against paying someone else to do what I had always taken for granted.

I realize that my body is ageing but I feel young inside. I am enjoying the freedom of watching late night / early morning TV without the worry of having to go to the office or, on a good day, meeting a friend for lunch, visiting a gallery on the spur of the moment - or just doing nothing.

As with most of life, it's swings and roundabouts. Just enjoy the good bits and curse the bad. It is important to maintain contact with the community and keep up with the news.

I think this topic should be explored deeper, but hope this helps.