The Freedom of Old Age: A Reflection on the Future of Elderly Lives
As I reflect on the journey of my life, marked prominently by freedom, I am 80 years old and have ceased to be driven by the constraints that used to weigh on me. My secluded life in the forest, once a source of joy and solitude, happily changed course when bad medical care began to catch up with me. My decision to return to California, with the support of my sons, was a turning point that set me on a course towards a life of unprecedented freedom and comfort. This essay explores the themes of old age, freedom, and the changing dynamics of elderly life in the 21st century.
From Loneliness to Freedom
One of my sons flew in to escort me back to California, where all the comforts of modern living awaited: a cozy apartment, a reliable car, and the best medical experts from Stanford University. This move, made six years ago, signified the beginning of a new era. I no longer drive and venture out only when accompanied by my two nearby sons. The financial burden is shared, and I am grateful for their support, even though the government does not allow for any deductions for the bills they cover.
Yet, life without the limitations of my youth has its charm. I buy everything online, and if not for the wonders of Amazon and grocery delivery services, I would undoubtedly be considered an unfit individual to care for myself. In the age of instant information, my days are both too short and incredibly rich with possibilities. But there is also a poignant contrast: my journey queries the facets of old age that often go unacknowledged in broader societal discussions.
Towards a New Norm
The transition from a youthful world to an elder one came with its own set of puzzles. In my younger days, I was acutely aware of the intolerance that permeated society, witnessed in the jokes and disdain directed towards the elderly. Yet, aging is an inescapable part of the human experience; there is no escape from it, barring any unforeseen tragedies. This understanding was a stark reality and a call to action for me.
The question of how to navigate old age with grace, dignity, and joy is what I aimed to explore. Financial freedom, a cornerstone of my new life, has been made possible by my sons, under whose care I find both comfort and contentment. However, this financial security alone does not address the broader question of how society perceives and supports its elderly. It’s a poignant reminder that financial independence is just one aspect of a complex, holistic approach to elderly care.
Elderly Life in the Digital Age
My life has been transformed by technology, particularly through my iPad, a gift from a son, and the internet that travels with me everywhere. These tools have brought the world to my doorstep, allowing me to explore my interests with ease. It’s fitting that my iPad embodies an era where the boundaries between man and machine are blurring, offering new ways to engage with the world and each other.
While I find solace in the digital realm, it is also a catalyst for self-reflection. The acknowledgment of physical decline and the acceptance of old age are crucial shifts that need to be embraced. Physical changes are real and significant, such as the reduction in mitochondria, the cellular powerhouses that drive energy. This shift from external validation to internal contentment is a vital step towards reclaiming one’s sense of self.
Addressing Societal Issues in Old Age
The conversation around elderly life often focuses on those who retain a semblance of youth, or at least, those who avoid the obvious signs of aging. It seems that we only count those who don’t look or act 'old.' But beyond the surface, there's a need to acknowledge that societal acceptance of old age is a critical issue. Old age is a unique period where we can forget about fitting into the mold of youth or impressing others. It’s a time to let ourselves go and find joy in our unique journey.
For me, one of the joys of old age is freedom from the unwanted male attention that used to define so much of my life. The end of periods, and the corresponding lack of concern about menstrual etiquette, is a profound liberation that aligns perfectly with the digital age. I am free to express myself without vigilance, to do what I want and say what I want without fear of misinterpretation. This is a luxury that should be accessible to all elderly individuals.
Not only is old age a period of great personal freedom, but it is also a truly unique experience. Our enjoyment of this stage of life should not be restricted by financial worries, governmental policies, or commercial pressures. The pursuit of trivial concerns should fade into the background as we embrace the freedom to pursue the truly interesting stuff in life. Money should not be a problem; think of how many elderly individuals would be offered a chance at this freedom if a fraction of the trillions of dollars in tax cuts were directed towards them.
The Call for a New Era
Ultimately, the essence of old age is a narrative of freedom, acceptance, and joy. I choose to call myself a crone, and it is a term that carries both a sense of pride and a recognition of the wisdom that comes with age. The future of elderly life is within our hands, and there is a profound opportunity to redefine what it means to grow old in the 21st century.