By Sally Hedberg
Special to the Town Crier
Photo by Sally Hedberg
We are aging since the day we were born, but each stage has its ups and downs, according to researcher and educator Dr. Renate Caine of Idyllwild. “Growing older does not have to be challenging if one can find ways to meet those challenges,” said Carol McClintic, organizer of the forum on “Aging Gracefully” to be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, at the Caine Learning Center.
With this in mind, Carol has put together a panel of locals to discuss this subject. The four panelists are Gary Glasheen, Elizabeth Miller, Marge Muir and Lola Fisher. Carol will moderate as the panel shares stories and answer questions. There will be a short break and then the audience will share what they have learned.
During this interaction, Renate and Carol usually hear comments like, “Thank God, I’m not alone.” They both agree a positive attitude, being able to share what is learned from life, and always learning new ideas definitely helps one accept the value of each stage of life.
According to research, a person’s brain cells have elasticity and need to be used. Using your brain is as important as diet and exercise for aging gracefully. When asked about the signals older people often receive from younger folks like, “Are you sure you can do this?” Renate and Carol’s advice is to say, “I need to do it by myself.” This is particularly difficult when younger relatives think a person should be removed from his/her own home. Renate commented it is very stressful on older people to leave their “castles” where everything is familiar. It is a tough decision.
Health care, which used to be a big problem for people on the Hill, has improved with clinics like Fern Creek and Idyllwild medical centers. There is a growing alliance with therapists, psychologists and acupuncture practitioners in the area. These services will allow more seniors to be able to remain in their own homes. Many professionals do take some form of health insurance.
Carol reiterated the importance of older people being useful in the community. Idyllwild is a perfect example of seniors volunteering. Renate, who has a passion for research, is already working on the next set of dialogues. She is particularly interested in the subject of stress and what it does to your whole body.
This topic will be a good follow up to the topics covered: “Balance,” “Chronic Pain,” “Fatigue,” “Aging Gracefully” and the last dialogue, “Caregiving,” scheduled for Sept. 8.
The Caine Learning Center is a non-profit organization affiliated with The Natural Learning Research Institute. The center is a source of a great number of events not readily available in other communities.
Whatever stage of aging, you will enjoy learning amidst the lively dialogue at the center at 54385 Pine Crest Ave. A suggested donation of $10 will help this resource remain a part of the community.
