As a kid, I had big dreams of a life filled with excitement, cool places, and the freedom to chase after whatever I wanted. I daydreamed about a world far from my happy childhood, inspired by stories of people living the lives I wished for. But I never thought that growing up meant not just living my own story but watching the people I looked up to grow old.
Childhood was all about fun adventures and dreaming big. But reality hit me early when a school friend passed away from drowning. In my teens, I felt invincible, but I saw relatives battling illnesses rather than just getting older.
In my twenties, full of energy and fearlessness, I faced the loss of family, friends, and even celebrities. However, I never took a moment to think about the inevitable aging of those I held close.
Getting married at twenty merged my in-laws and parents into one unit. Their aging process started subtly. I didn’t notice the clock ticking as they went from active partners to needing care. The role reversal was a stark reminder that time doesn’t spare anyone.
The realization hit hard as they entered their late 80s and mid-90s—giving up driving, relying on travel companions, and needing more assistance. Those once strong pioneers became dependent on the very people they used to support.
In my dreams, I never considered the impact of aging until it became a reality. The phrase I coined, “If we live long enough, we will get old,” echoed in my mind, reminding me that age catches up with everyone.
Now, as I celebrate my mom’s recent birthday, my dad’s a few days ago, and my in-laws with the average age of 90, though very fortunate to have them around, our family navigate this uncharted territory. Aging demands attention and compassion.
My wife’s work with the Alzheimer’s Association sheds light on the complexities of aging, but knowing alone doesn’t make the journey easier. It pushes us to engage with our governments, pushing for creative solutions and research funding to tackle the challenges of dementia. The toll goes beyond finances, affecting the victims and taking a psychological toll on current and future generations.
With longer life expectancy and the unsettling reality of dementia affecting younger individuals, the future seems daunting. As we celebrate birthdays, I balance cherishing the present with actively shaping a compassionate future.
Happy Birthday to my mom and belated wishes to my dad—an acknowledgment of the intricate beauty of aging, a journey intertwined with our very essence.
