Senior Citizens in Action: How Folks Over 55 Can Make a Difference in Their Lives

Was I wrong or what? My early mental images of a senior citizen was someone who wore lots of polyester with padded shoes, slowly waddling from side to side or scraping the floors with slippers that had turned over several times. They had a daily routine to go from the bedroom to the kitchen, then the kitchen to the nearest television to watch game shows, soap operas and news (in that exact order). The only excitement was either from what they saw on TV, a friend or relative came by to dish minor gossip or maybe Sunday dinner with family. Then immediately afterwards, they had to have a nap - no questions asked.

Depending on who you ask, a senior citizen can be as young as 50 years old and if you look at lot of the population that is in their forties, it is hard to see that orthopedic shoes in their immediate future. If you asked me a long time ago if I thought my grandmother would download greeting card software on her computer or listen faithfully to a radio program dedicated to computers, I would have either laughed or just given you a blank stare. Though in comparison to the wealthy, who tend to be more dedicated in pushing back the clock when it comes to appearances, this is an small example of how taking better care of yourself can not only extend your life but give you more days of enjoyment. It is not complicated nor does it take a lot money but here are a few tips to making your golden years a little easier.

1. CLASSES
Check out the local Parks and Recreation Department in your city. They usually have listings especially for seniors and these are not limited to needlework classes. They have tours around the city, classes in everything from computers to photography and even martial arts. Local colleges that offer Extension (or Community Education) classes are trying to keep up with today's elderly population as well. They offer a variety of courses that one can take as a hobby or use in a new career. These resources also offer tours to cities that cost less and are more comfortable than taking a long drive in a car.

2. TRANSPORTATION
Right now there is a public debate about the age limit for driving. Anyone who uses back streets with caution will definitely agree that is much easier than taking heavy traffic roads or freeways, even if it takes a little longer. Doing this during the day can alleviate future problems such as having a car break down during rush hour, problems driving after dark or anything that might place one in danger. I personally would recommend that anyone who is no longer comfortable behind the wheel should consider public transportation. Once again, check in with the Parks and Recreation Department for information regarding senior shuttle buses. If your town does not have this service, find out how to get one started; especially if taking the city bus can be dangerous and taking a cab is not an option.

3. SOCIAL LIFE
I once lived in a buiding that had a few seniors that were fairly active and sociable. Though I sometimes enjoyed being around anybody who wasn't going to discuss relationships or work, other times I wished that they would go outside the property and find people that loved (and had the time) to talk. When I was in school, we had to perform volunteer hours and there was an opportunity to be around the elderly, not as a free nurse but just to be sociable. My grandmother actually has friends that are closer to my mother's age and younger. It is never to late to meet new people, even if it's only to share a laugh or two. Whether it's taking classes, going to religious events or even a short stroll, getting fresh air makes a difference in any lifestyle. Like the rest of us, be cautious of anybody that is too friendly too fast or wants to get into your personal business within a short time of knowing them.

4. LAUGHTER
My grandfather still works and will not tell anybody when he's going to retire. This is a concern but just knowing that he can still have a short laugh makes me feel better about his decision to continue punching in a clock. When friends and family are not around for general conversation about life or just to have their ear bent, seniors who are computer literate can check out www.pruneville.com. It is one of many sites dedicated to light humor.

5. SAFETY
In this day and age, very few of us can say we are 100% safe, 365 days a year. There is always someone out there who is out to get someone, whether it be financially, physically or mentally. Not long ago, a well-known national bank was linked to a telemarketing scandal that targeted seniors by having them invest their funds in non-FDIC insured accounts that were soon depleted. These were not bank employees nor was this a practice by the bank itself but a financial services subsidiary that shared the same name. Go to http://www.seniorcitizens.com/scams/ to see how some really slimy people are trying to get your hard-earned dollars. Since women in general tend to do more shopping, they are more likely to have their purse stolen. Elderly women are seen as an easier target since they might not move as fast and are less likely to defend themselves. Though it would be interesting (but not necessarily safe) to see grandmothers packing the heat like Tyler Perry's Madea character, just keeping a whistle or letter opener within easy reach can bring a little assurance of being able to protect one's self.