70 years ago, at age 18, I started a job as orderly in a ‘convalescent home.’ [In that time, those were like hospices but were really places to put family members who were too great a burden for families, or in some cases, just inconvenient. Some were in there for years.]
I walked into a ward with 12 men of varying ages and conditions, who were sitting on their beds, just looking at the floor, and, for the time I was there, most continued to do that without moving except during meals or to go to bathroom [those who could do so on their own]. I recognized men who I thought had died. To say I was shocked is to say the sun is a light.
At that precise moment I was looking at my possible future and the next few months engraved those images into my memory. I have never forgotten that time and I still remember more of their names and faces than of the students I taught until 1997.
So, kid, you better make good use of your brain and pay attention because you’ll get there if life allows it.
I once read about a Children’s Museum in Israel that has kids don gloves to experience what it’s like to have an elder person’s manual dexterity. I used to think that was hyperbole, then I became an elder…
I think that old age is 15 years older than I am right now. My perception is I’ll never get old. It’s always 15 years in the future. And stay off my lawn! Hahaha!
carlsonbob 23 days ago
Getting old ain’t for sissies!
Ratkin 23 days ago
I’ve heard something about the alternative, now how does that go?
pschearer Premium Member 23 days ago
I wish I had looked it up about 20 years ago. Then I wouldn’t have been so surprised by everything that’s happened.
(There are still a few medical specialists I don’t have yet, but it’s just a matter of time.)
cracker65 23 days ago
I’m still breathing.
Walter Kocker Premium Member 23 days ago
Sadie told me a recent British Poll said that folks settled on the age of 72 years – to be called “elderly”. Poop!
And elderly retired people are called O.A.Ps. (Old Age Pensioners). Can’tcha just hear their bones cracking?
Methinks the British could do with a bit of positivity training to overcome their chronic lessened life expectations. And ageism.
luca.debus creator 23 days ago
WHAT?? Grampa is old?? That’s so sad, I had no idea! Maybe we should write him a get well card or something?
scote1379 Premium Member 23 days ago
Go away Kid ya bother me !
iggyman 23 days ago
Someday you will know, Nelson!
PraiseofFolly 23 days ago
That durn Google whippersnapper! (spit)
tremaine53 23 days ago
Apparently, Nelson learned that you’re supposed to treat the elderly in a condescending manner.
cmerb 23 days ago
I just love the Roscoe today , he is just precious : )
Funniguy 23 days ago
See, Google doesn’t know everything.
dbrucepm 23 days ago
Oh, I’d rather be gone
Than carry on
I’d rather go away
Than feel this way
Oh, I’d rather be there
Where you haven’t got a care
And you’re better off dead
Though it doesn’t seem fair
I’d Rather Be Dead-Harry Nilsson
Stocky One 23 days ago
With age comes wisdom.
VICTOR PROULX 23 days ago
At 77 I’m doing ok, it’s the world around me that’s falling apart.
david_42 23 days ago
The other men in my family have all died around 50, I’m 72 – uncharted territory.
ANIMAL 23 days ago
FANTASTIC
Saddenedby Premium Member 23 days ago
“don’t let the old man in”
Linguist 23 days ago
I’m learning in my advanced years when playing the old man card is advantageous.
ladykat 23 days ago
Aw, Nelson is trying to be sweet.
sandpiper 23 days ago
70 years ago, at age 18, I started a job as orderly in a ‘convalescent home.’ [In that time, those were like hospices but were really places to put family members who were too great a burden for families, or in some cases, just inconvenient. Some were in there for years.]
I walked into a ward with 12 men of varying ages and conditions, who were sitting on their beds, just looking at the floor, and, for the time I was there, most continued to do that without moving except during meals or to go to bathroom [those who could do so on their own]. I recognized men who I thought had died. To say I was shocked is to say the sun is a light.
At that precise moment I was looking at my possible future and the next few months engraved those images into my memory. I have never forgotten that time and I still remember more of their names and faces than of the students I taught until 1997.
So, kid, you better make good use of your brain and pay attention because you’ll get there if life allows it.
Angry Indeed 23 days ago
“Nelson. My head ain’t a bongo drum!”
trainnut1956 23 days ago
The worst part of growing old is… dang… I can’t remember….
waes-hael 23 days ago
I once read about a Children’s Museum in Israel that has kids don gloves to experience what it’s like to have an elder person’s manual dexterity. I used to think that was hyperbole, then I became an elder…
rhpii 23 days ago
Finally, some empathy!
monya_43 23 days ago
I think that old age is 15 years older than I am right now. My perception is I’ll never get old. It’s always 15 years in the future. And stay off my lawn! Hahaha!
Mike Baldwin creator 23 days ago
Age is just a state of mind your own business.
zeexenon 23 days ago
As for me, I choose the Methuselah alternative medicine.
David Huie Green LosersBlameOthers&It'sYOURfault 23 days ago
“So you’re saying it was accurate?”
William Stoneham Premium Member 22 days ago
I’m forwarding this to my kids. They can’t say they haven’t been warned about what’s awaiting them.
christelisbetty 22 days ago
Nelson, remember this when you are old enough to help your Grand parents around the house.
Moonkey Premium Member 22 days ago
I once met a grandmother who was 29 years old. Not all grandparents are “old.”
Michael Joss 22 days ago
My mother told me often " Never get old." I wonder just what she meant?