“While I thought that I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die.” Leonardo da Vinci
Those in this age bracket now represent 4.7 percent of the 65-and-older US population, compared to 2.8 percent in 1980. The U.S. Census Bureau has estimated that by 2050, the number of those living beyond 90 years will quadruple. By the time we reach that age, we may have lost our spouse, other family members and most of our friends. We’ll have some disability which takes away much of our freedom. Driving a car is usually out of the question, although I know several folks who continue to drive at this age. They are less likely to be texting or drinking while driving, but their reflexes aren’t what they used to be.
When you live until 90 and beyond, the body no longer produces new cells to replace the old ones, so at this age you are slowly dying. There are options for those with need of memory care. Many facilities are now offering activities that challenge the memory and often those who love music will be stimulated by the sound of a piano playing. Those who have forgotten members of their family can be reminded through old photographs, stories from the past and more contact with family members. Anything that keeps the mind active is critical at this point in life. Our bodies may be falling apart, but if our minds are sound, we can live for a long time.
When we’re without a spouse or friends to rely on, many in this age bracket realize the need for moving out of the supposed comfort of their homes into a community of people with similar needs. I believe that most people thrive on other people. When we isolate ourselves, we lose interest in life. If we were socially active in our younger years, chances are we’ll want that in our aging years. Activity directors are constantly looking for new things for their residents to be involved in. There are those who simply think this is the end of their lives and give up. You will see them lined up in their wheel chairs with no desire to go on.
Since we’re living longer in the United States, we need to make the most of those years. God still can use us, no matter what our age. It’s up to us to find a way to continue sharing our talents and wisdom for His glory, until we take our last breath. Whatever we did in our growing up years, will be helpful to future generations. Don’t underestimate the things that you’ve experienced in your many years. Even the low spots can encourage someone who is going through similar situations. Your ability to share how you endured, will give others hope.
During this span of time, we’re looking with great anticipation to what lies ahead. For those of us who have faith in God’s promises, we can look forward to an eternity in paradise. Our shriveled bodies will gain new life. Memories of the ugly parts of existence will disappear. No tears, no worry, no pain, no sorrow, no memory of the evil world we leave behind. Life goes on in perfection.
THANK YOU, JESUS FOR ANOTHER DAY.
atimetoshare.me 
“Life goes on in perfection.” Hard to fathom, but great to anticipate.
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I know it sounds too good to be true, but God’s promises never fail to be true.
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Kathy,
By the end of this year, I will be joining this group. Don
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Welcome to my world.
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Kathy, we should try to take DaVinci’s quote in a Biblical context and remember that, “to die is gain.” We are all on this Earth learning to die, but in Christ that actually means, learning to live in Him, preparing for new life, being born again. I really like the notion that this life on Earth is kind of like being in heaven’s womb. Our real lives have yet to begin.
I do know two 90 yr olds here in my neck of the woods still going strong. LOL, one still drives although I really wish he wouldn’t! The other hikes all over the place and rides the bus. Just the sight of her makes me smile because she’s still got some pep in her step which is remarkable for her age. I’m actually here sitting on my heating pad. 🙂
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LOL I’d be sitting on my heating pad too much if I had one. Instead I’ll snuggle up with my electric blanket. Most of my friends are in this age group. Many have gone to their heavenly home. I had a nightmare last night that was very disturbing. I dreamt that I died and went to hell. I woke and found myself alive. It felt like a Bill Murray movie “Groundhog Day.” It took me quite a while to shake loose of it. We live to die and we die to live.
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Keep shining the LIGHT – our bodies may fail, but the light of His countenance shines brightest in our weakness.
“While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being.” Ps. 146:2
I love the phrase “any being” – How good God is to include us!
Blessings to you
BT
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Thanks for your affirmation. It is so glorious to know that Jesus died for everyone, isn’t it? Even when we feel unworthy, he demonstrates unconditional love. Blessings to you❤️
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You gave a very positive outlook on ‘nursing homes’ and socialization. I never really considered that some octogenarians thrive there. My eyes have always been focused on the ones ‘lined up at the door.’
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I know that feeling too. My mother in law was in a nursing home for almost 14 years. She had dementia. She found her purpose there. She helped serve food and talked to other patients. She was happy there. It isn’t where I would choose to die, but I know she was being well cared for.
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My sister has been in the hospital all week with infections, a skin deep infection of some sort in both legs and a UTI. They are transferring her to a rehab center. It has been tough for me to even find out what is going on. I hope she will be back home within a couple of weeks. Her husband died about 16 months ago, but she has a daughter, granddaughter, and great granddaughter living with her. She would not be alone if she went home. I have thinking of this stage of aging for some time, if I am blessed with enough years. I appreciate your insights.
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Oh Mark I so understand. Coming to that final curtain is hard even when our faith is strong. I will pray for your sister. I hope she has a future in heaven and that she doesn’t need to go through a lot of pain. God’s plan allows us to surrender to His will and makes the transition from life to death easier. I know I’m getting closer every day. God bless you💕
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