HOME & DESIGN theconnectionsnj.com PAGE 38 y darling Mom-in-law always told me this, and now, as she approaches her 102nd, yes, hundred and second, birthday, she probably has not changed her mind. But, and this is a big but, it is important to remember that life is so much better for seniors than ever before, particularly for baby boomers. Perhaps because we are an aging population, more and more lifestyle strides are being made. Once again, baby boomers are pushing the envelope with our desire to remain vital, involved, strong, healthy and relevant. We decided when quite young that we would call our shots, and that is still true. As I consider the desires we have for better living, I think about the concept of communities of all types welcoming seniors. Had we not brought Mom to Mira Vie in Warren, at the time, Chelsea at Warren, in March of 2015, I have no doubt she would not have had the length and quality of life she enjoys. Being with others is, in many cases, a lifesaver. The opportunity to chat, play Rummikub (yes, she still does!) dine with others, exercise, receive routine medical care without leaving the facility, and receive her day-to-day care without stress have all enabled her to experience a gentle lifestyle, one perfect for a woman of her generation. Baby boomers are the next generation looking at the effects of aging, and we recognize that living well requires the continuation of more major advances in many arenas. We do not settle for “sometime in the future” because this is our time to spell out our needs. Not only do our lives depend upon it, but those of our families do, as well. As we are making our voices heard, the medical field is primary in responding. In cardiology, we have the technology to not only better diagnose Atrial Fibrillation, but treat it, as well. Stents and replacements of aging valves are becoming as ubiquitous as eyeglasses, preventing the necessity of opening the chest for many heart procedures. Pharma is reacting with countless new drugs, and the media advertises them as if they are available on Amazon. Our ability to see is key for a satisfying life, and our need for eyeglasses is greater than ever. Newer bifocal and trifocal lenses have changed over these past years. Israeli technology, for example, has created specific gradient transitions that allow for incredibly acute vision. Additionally, there are many advancements in macular degeneration as well as cataract surgery, which led to blindness in the past. These are just a few of the exciting changes in vision treatments. Speaking of our senses, hearing aids have become more user-friendly. Audiologists have far more to offer in terms of the advancements in the ability to hear, and aids are infinitely more comfortable and almost invisible. It is no longer unusual for everyone at a dinner table of boomers to pull out their phone and adjust for ambient noise in the restaurant. Skin care and plastic surgery are utilized beyond vanity, and simply to have a better self-image. Exercise is encouraged everywhere, and physical therapy has become a huge part of dealing with the pain of degenerative bone disease. We know much more about diet, and that has lengthened our lives. Spirituality and the ability to better understand our changing roles in family life and society are explored and enlighten us as never before. Although “aging is not for sissies,” we are not destined for sitting in the background of life because of our age. We have wisdom and strength and are vital and empowered. We have strong voices and will use them to make our needs known. That has always been our calling, and we have the confidence to continue to move forward! M Baby boomers are the next generation looking at the effects of aging, and we recognize that living well requires the continuation of more major advances in many arenas. SLICEOFLIFE Aging is NOT for Sissies By Ellyn Mantell
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