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Is Aging Truly FUN?, By professional psychologists at ImPerfect

Dada- dadi, nana- nani, Anju’s favourite people in her life. Anju is 19 now. Anju worries about her grandparents and she also worries about her friend’s grandparents. She knows her best friend’s grand mom is being forgetful and she is already on medication. “Everyone at home is busy. None of us spend enough time with them. I try my best to spare some time but with college and my schedule it becomes difficult. What will happen to them? Will they also become like Sarita aunty?” she questions. 

Anju  is not the only one going through this dilemma. I must say, she is fortunate to be available for them. There are so many seniors who live by themselves. Or live with someone who is frequently away from home. Or whose children have migrated and have no time for them. Families and children living abroad too are unable to look after their parents. They feel lonely and isolated.

With development, certain situations for our seniors have changed. Nuclear family system, has created a void, a certain degree of isolation, loss of respect, lack of care and a sense of insecurity or depression.

Well, there are a few things that we can do to keep our seniors engaged.

Find time from our busy schedule and spend a few quality moments with them.

• We can visit them often.
• Enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee with them. 
• Treat them at simple cafes.
• Go to the park with them. Walk with them or just sit in the open with them.
• Take a walk with them.
• Make them feel independent. A sense of purpose or usefulness. Take their opinions.
• Discuss current affairs. Show interest in knowing and understanding their earlier lifestyles.
• Understand how they manage to adapt to this ever so fast paced changing world.
• Play games with them.
• Respect them. Give them their own space. But let them know that you care and be there for them.
• Give your full attention and be patient.

Memory loss, Alzheimer, Parkinson, poor health, weakness or insecurities set in as we age.

What should our seniors do to keep fit and active themselves?

• Go for regular walks.
• Socialize.
• Make an attempt to keep in touch with friends at least over a phone call.
• Try to learn and adapt to new technology.
• Continue with your hobbies. 
• Listen to music.
• Move around, dance or shake a bit. 
• Laugh and smile all the time.
• Continue playing board games/ chess/ sudoku/ draw/ paint/ scribble/ doodle.
• Pray, meditate.
• Keep yourself well hydrated. 
• Breathe, breathe and breathe well.
• Practice gratitude.

Although this does not seem to be a favourable option in our culture, but with changing times and circumstances, explore the idea of living in an old age home. These days there are good homes with very good facilities.

Social day care centre is another option. Become a member of such a centre. You would meet new people and make new friends. 

Keep yourself active, in body and mind.

Yes, age gracefully and make it fun filled.

Kashmira Adil Kakalia, is a Special Educator and a Mental Health Professional from the best psychology consulting clinic at ImPerfect. She uses Narrative Therapy in her practice. She works with students, young adults, adults, senior citizens, individuals and families.