You have heard the expression “all babies look alike,” well, they say it about seniors too. It’s not true of course, but it seems that once you pass 65 you begin to fade into the woodwork. The assumption is that gray hair, wrinkles, and sore feet are a sure sign that dementia is not far behind.
Doesn’t that make you just a little bit mad? You may not be quite as tech savvy as today’s youngies, but your brain is still firing on all of the cylinders that count.
Still, you are not alone if you start doubting yourself. When service people avoid looking at you and addressing answer to “your questions” to someone else, it is a sign that they don’t think you will understand.
It’s okay if you want to defer to your kid for advice, but you shouldn’t have to point out that you have several college degrees, have a good understanding of the English language, and are capable of logical decision making.
Be wary of anyone patting you on the head or calling you “honey.” especially if it is your own children. Go ahead, give them the evil eye, but don’t be too harsh, just make sure they understand where you are coming from.
Still the question arises. How are you supposed to make a difference when no one sees you? As people grow older there are fewer opportunities to feel like they matter. Self-worth and identity suffer when you feel you are no longer relevant or productive.
The onus is on you of course. To be or not to be, or visible or invisible? Refuse to let others erase you from your space in the world. Be strong. Seniors do more in their communities than any other age group and they have an organization that is more powerful than even they understand.
And as for you; stop saying you are having senior moments. Have a life beyond your grandchildren, and for heaven’s sake keep your aches to yourself. Practice being visible, whether wearing a red hat or speaking up at city council meetings. Be interested and be interesting.
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