As you may already know, JF&CS covers an entire realm of services for older adults; from counseling to guardianship to food assistance, through its affiliation with AgeWell Pittsburgh and more.
But here’s some food for thought: Matthias Hollwich’s book, New Aging: Live Smarter Now to Live Better Forever, suggests that how we feel about the future can influence how we experience it. So it might be easier and less stressful if we think about it now and lay some groundwork, from our physical space (he’s an architect) to our habits to our relationships. Hollwich wrote the book from his 40-ish perspective, but we can think ahead at any age, can’t we?
Here are just a few of his ideas about making aging easier, and how we can get started:
- Treat aging more like you might any trip to a new land. What fascinating things might you discover? Start today by going someplace or doing something you’ve never done before.
- Get up and out: It gets easier to stay home but don’t. Create new experiences and keep in touch with the world: get some exercise! Start today by making a list of reasons to go out, and go forth.
- Keep your peeps: Don’t let life’s chores and worries crowd out the people in your life. There’s always time for some personal outreach. Start today by calling or arranging to meet up with somebody you’ve been meaning to connect with.
- Simplify: Some of us are happy to lighten up and let go. Others hold on to happiness and good memories through stuff. If you are the former, pass on the important things to the important people, and donate the excess. Less to tote, less to dust. If you are the latter, think about how your stuff might really help somebody in need, or maybe that your garage sale will finance your next adventure. Start now by taking one item that you have not used or worn in a year and part with it. Repeat.
- Keep learning: Now that you don’t have to study, you can do it just for fun. Research says the brain stays sharper longer only if you learn new things. Start now by: taking a free class or downloading a language app. Got a small house project or something that needs to be fixed? Try watching a “how-to” YouTube video!
- Eat your vegetables: eating healthier is a good idea at any age. Explore the farmer’s markets. A potluck with a healthy theme lightens the work. Start now by searching up your favorite foods online and finding a healthier recipe to incorporate into your diet.
- Go digital: You are not too old to learn to use digital devices. Technology offers shopping, information, books, contact with others, and much more. Your grandchildren can teach you; create great family time.
Start now by exploring the camera on your smartphone. o take some pictures. If you are device-less, use the computers at the library to search the internet for people or places that evoke fond memories.
Imagine Independent Living Spaces
As an architect, Hollwich also promotes his “New Aging” on a bigger scale: age-friendly living spaces, city planning, transportation, safety, and community. Hollwich is saying we don’t have to equate aging only with loss. He’s turning the concept of “plan ahead” into “imagine ahead,” hoping that we will get more enjoyment out of these precious years.
As the architect says, “Aging is a gift that we receive with life.” Let’s all make the most of it – starting now!
About JFCS Pittsburgh Senior Services
Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS) Pittsburgh offers a range of services and resources to help seniors maintain their independence while providing support to caregivers and loved ones. For more information, please call JFCS Senior Services at (412) 422-7200 or visit www.jfcspgh.org/senior-services.