Talk shows, social media and conversations are always reminding us about the so-called "Good Old Days." Not all of the past was golden, that's for sure. Poverty, wars, racial injustice, epidemics: there are many things that were not better in the past. But the old-time pleasures are still great to look back on and recall. Sharing memories of good times past with others can make new memories and pass along important values.

• People were better

Remembering good people in our lives is a real pleasure. A great way to honor those who have passed before is to talk about them. One philosophy is that people never die as long as they are remembered. Sure, Aunt Laura might have seemed grumpy or Grandfather might have had many health problems, but sharing their stories is a great way to keep them alive.

• TV was better

There have always been plenty of failures on television, but who can forget such gems as "I Love Lucy" and "Father Knows Best," "Good Times" and "The Man from U.N.C.LE"? In half an hour, a family could learn to trust each other, a crabby neighbor could be softened or an important mission could be accomplished with minimal bloodshed. Language and humor in almost every show was safe for everyone!

• Cars were better

Get a group of citizens over 65 together and sooner or later, the topic will turn to the cars they loved or hated. Who doesn't have a story about a "lemon" or the car they learned to drive in or a beauty that they restored by hand? Car safety and function may be improving all the time, but nothing can be better than those beautiful old vehicle designs.

• Everything felt better

As aging and mobility issues become more prominent in lives of elders, the past starts to feel like a time of no pain or worries. Roller-skating is recalled without the hurt of the skinned knees. Child-bearing is forgotten as new generations bring joy. Even losses and heartaches soften over time. Reflection can lead to a new, peaceful view of past times.
 
Yet while remembering things from the past that were beloved and pleasurable, it can be important to look around at the present. Take time to appreciate advances in medicine and convenience, to enjoy technology and advancing ideas, and to value what has been made much better, so that each day can be one of the "Good New Days."

Kim Rayas
Residence 600
kim@residence600.com
www.residence600.com
600 E. Elm
Salina KS 67401
(785) 822-1300
 

Have you heard people say that "growing old is no fun?" Who says? Retirement no longer means sitting in a rocking chair just watching other people enjoy life. There are plenty of ways to still have fun as seniors.
 
1. Take a Chance
            Games can be individual activities, like playing Solitaire or working a Sudoku puzzle, or group enterprises, such as the card game Hearts or a trivia game. The brain activity provided by counting, guessing, figuring and laughing is a tremendous advantage to mental health and a scheduled "game night" on the calendar can also provide something to look forward to.
 
2. Take a Moment
            Even if the family is too busy to stop by for long visiting sessions, memories and thoughts can be shared through writing. Many people this their life was routine or ordinary, but everyone has real stories, heartbreaks, obstacles and successes to pass along to others. An older adult can jot down notes about their time in a war or their reactions to a historical event. Maybe share some gardening secrets or memories of a teaching career. The budding writer might have some hilarious tales to tell. If hand-writing is hard, enlist a younger relative to "take dictation" for an hour or so at a time or use a small recording device. The process of writing can actually prevent age-related brain shrinkage.
 
3. Take a Walk
            The simple act of taking a walk is one of the best ways to keep healthy. Even a stroll around the block or up the hallway and back can add to a senior's strength, balance, lung function and eyesight. New vistas and scenery can soothe the mind: a bird's nest, a holiday decoration, a child at play or new models of cars all provide new "brain food."
 
4. Take the Plunge
            Swimming can be a safe and healthy way for seniors to spend time. While being a calm way to lower blood pressure and increase strength, it's easy on the joints and can help fight osteoporosis. Some classes at a local gym or community pool are geared especially to seniors, with helpful instructors and fun music.
 
5. Take the Stage
            "Let's put on a show," was often the delighted cry of Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland, and it's still a wonderful idea. Many residential or worship centers provide activities for seniors to act, sing, or dance. Cardiovascular health, serotonin levels, balance and memory can all be improved by getting creative in these active ways. 
 
Kim Rayas
Residence 600
kim@residence600.com
​785-822-7294