July 11, 2022

I recently had an opinion piece printed in our local newspaper, Pasadena Now discussing the theme of this year’s national Older Americans Month, “Age My Way”, and our ongoing mission here at the Center: #Age Well.

 

When I think about people who exemplify these ideals, the person that comes to my mind right away is my 90+-year-old friend Mama Coco, whose celebration of life I recently attended. While I knew her as a vibrant, supremely positive person with a magnetic and warm personality, I was moved to learn new things about her at the service.

 

Every week, Mama Coco gathered with 12 friends for lunch and a card game. She became a U.S. citizen at the age of 88 years old after studying diligently to pass the citizenship exam.

 

These things painted a fuller picture of my friend, but what struck me most is that everyone who spoke at the service couldn’t stop smiling as they recounted inspiring and funny stories. Mama Coco aged her way, and aged well.

 

Now, we all know that all humans face setbacks and challenges. Why do some prosper, and some succumb to hopelessness? Resilience is what helps us to more successfully cope with the challenges life sends our way. Mama Coco had resilience, and her inner strength translated into a life well-lived.

 

Experts tell us there are specific things that all of us can do to increase our resilience:

• Build a solid foundation.

Take care of yourself: get enough sleep, eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, get involved with activities that give your life meaning.

 

• Develop supportive relationships.

Quality over quantity is important—we don’t need many, but we benefit emotionally when we invest in a few good ones.

 

• Focus on what you can control.

During hard times, do things to help yourself: meditate, even for five minutes; journal; take an online course; read an inspirational book; find activities that are good for you and that bring you contentment.

 

• Prioritize your mental health.

The guidance of a trusted counselor or therapist can make this process feel more manageable and give you a roadmap for increasing resilience.

 

I am proud to say that the Center has resources and activities that can help increase resilience and build inner strength. Take advantage of the things we offer. And then, look around for a friend or two who would benefit from becoming a member.  

 

Let’s keep growing older, and growing stronger.