jsimmons65
New Member
I've been thinking quite a bit lately about concerns and challenges of seniors, and since I am 71 years old, I suppose that puts me in that category. I know everyone must have different concerns based on his or her situation, but I sense that a lot of us struggle with some of the same kinds of stuff.
Right now, I am struggling with finding the right things to do, now that I am retired, and my wife is still actively employed. Playing golf once a week and volunteering at the local hospital for a few hours each week doesn't seem to do it. And, since I exercise at least three times a week, and am still in pretty good shape I feel like I can do more, but it's the right kind of "more" I guess that I struggle with.
For some time, I've had a hard time staying in the house during the day. Call it cabin fever or what you like, but I know that I need more social interaction. Up until just recently, our daughter and our two grandkids were living with us, and I played quite an important role in getting the kids up in the morning, making sure they got dressed, were fed breakfast, and were dropped off at school. I would often pick them up as well. I was glad to be of help, and this may continue, but it really doesn't do much for my feeling of well being.
I suppose a lot of it is because both kids are pretty high maintenance, and at the age they are at (6 and 7), they just want to take, take, take, and not really give too much in return. Unfortunately, our daughter is a single mom, with very few friends she can rely on, so that leaves her mom and I.
I suppose a lot of us seniors, who are partial caregivers for their grandkids are in the same boat and struggle with how to balance our own needs with the needs of others. Any comment?
Right now, I am struggling with finding the right things to do, now that I am retired, and my wife is still actively employed. Playing golf once a week and volunteering at the local hospital for a few hours each week doesn't seem to do it. And, since I exercise at least three times a week, and am still in pretty good shape I feel like I can do more, but it's the right kind of "more" I guess that I struggle with.
For some time, I've had a hard time staying in the house during the day. Call it cabin fever or what you like, but I know that I need more social interaction. Up until just recently, our daughter and our two grandkids were living with us, and I played quite an important role in getting the kids up in the morning, making sure they got dressed, were fed breakfast, and were dropped off at school. I would often pick them up as well. I was glad to be of help, and this may continue, but it really doesn't do much for my feeling of well being.
I suppose a lot of it is because both kids are pretty high maintenance, and at the age they are at (6 and 7), they just want to take, take, take, and not really give too much in return. Unfortunately, our daughter is a single mom, with very few friends she can rely on, so that leaves her mom and I.
I suppose a lot of us seniors, who are partial caregivers for their grandkids are in the same boat and struggle with how to balance our own needs with the needs of others. Any comment?
Since you're physically active, perhaps you can join a group of seniors who are involved with hiking, bike riding, bird-watching, swimming, table-tennis or any number of sport-type activities. Something like that will not only fill more hours in your day, but you'll also benefit from the socialization and exercise. Just some thoughts, pick something that you really would enjoy and give you a sense of fulfillment.
