Heart And Soul: Embracing the ageing journey
Lim says ageing reminds us that tomorrow isn't promised, so tick items off your bucket list, and if there's a dear friend you've meant to visit, go. — Freepik
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How time flies! My other half is now officially an octogenarian, and in two years, I will join him. Statistics reveal that only 44% of people live beyond 70 to reach 80 – a sobering thought.
Last year was particularly painful: I attended the funerals of two sisters-in-law, a couple of former colleagues, and several dear friends.
I echo what many of us say at this age – we're all queueing up to meet our Maker. Our social circle has shrunk, and our activities have become more limited.
With ageing, health inevitably deteriorates. Our organs begin to wear out and degenerate. Unlike machines that can be fixed with spare parts, the human body slows down, creaking towards its final chapters.
Old age, as they say, isn't for the faint-hearted. We're prone to memory lapses – those 'senior moments' – dizziness, and mishaps around the house.
I had two nasty falls last year: one in the garden that left me with a fractured wrist in a plaster cast for two months, and another resulting in dislocated elbows and a further four months of discomfort.
Cutting vegetables with my non-dominant hand became a daily struggle. The frustration of living with limbs encased in plaster was overwhelming.
On top of that, my hearing and eyesight have weakened. The once fiercely independent version of myself now needs assistance.
Stories of friends slipping into dementia or becoming burdens to their children are unsettling.
Some elderly people end up alone in care homes, depression slowly setting in. At this age, a small mishap can alter your life entirely.
But, there are two sides to every coin. Life would be bleak if we only focused on its difficulties. So, live and let live. Erase words that darken your outlook. Don't dwell on regrets. Forgive freely. Grumpiness should be avoided at all costs.
Pamper yourself – splurge on a spa treatment, a manicure, a facial. Use the perfume or dress you've been saving for a 'special occasion' – that moment is now. Tomorrow isn't promised.
Tick items off your bucket list. If there's a dear friend you've meant to visit, go. If there are short day trips or senior excursions available, sign up and enjoy the camaraderie. Don't isolate yourself or fall into self-pity.
Volunteering can be deeply fulfilling. Help out at an orphanage or a centre for the underprivileged. Your time and presence can be more valuable than you think.
If you're blessed with grandchildren, cherish them. But be mindful – nothing irks them more than constant advice. Their world revolves around gadgets and screens – let it be.
Offer guidance sparingly, only when truly needed. You've done your bit raising your children; let their parents take the reins now.
Keep your visits joyful. My grandchildren often say, 'Chillax, Mama' – a lovely reminder to just relax and take things easy.
Each morning, if you're fortunate enough to wake up, give thanks. Make the most of the day. Whether it's reading the paper, watching television, gardening or meeting a friend – do what makes you happy. Let no one dictate how you spend your time. Eat in moderation, squeeze in a little exercise, and keep moving if your health allows.
Ultimately, you're in charge. Be the master of your daily life.
Enjoy every moment – because it truly is later than you think.
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