HOW IS GRANDDAD DOING?

The Senior who Could Lose His Citizenship.

Granddad has a problem. It is not a pretty picture.

In earlier days he had two jobs. One was to work so that the family had bread on the table. The other, he was in charge of big things like houses, cars, trips and kids’ education.

Now, his two big jobs are done. He may be left without a purpose. Being old without a purpose is both bad and dangerous. We see some granddads sweeping the driveway and tinkering with jobs that aren’t essential. This is a tragedy for a person with skills, experience and a desire to be useful.

His life is made worse by all the changes. In his old world the church, school and family worked together. Now they largely ignore each other. He is blinded by the pace of life. He is appalled at the “Me” generation that wants everything now and charges to get it.

He is particularly upset by the lack of gratitude of the younger generation. It is not just what he did for them. It is what our society has done for them. How many of the young families realize thousands of Canadians died in WWII to protect our way of life? Eastern societies revere the elderly. In Western society, they are in many ways a liability.

Nor is there an appreciation of what old age is like. Maybe they don’t want to know. For instance, old age means forgetfulness, chills in warm weather, a body that is steadily changing, lack of energy to do the ordinary things and lots more medical attention and medications.

There can be a good side to old age despite all this gloom. Here are some of granddad’s good options:

• He can extend his skills and experience in a hobby or part time job
• He can be part of a club: social, books, curling, golf gardening
• He can be part of a faith community which meets, prays and serves
• He can take up a regular exercise routine and watch his diet
• He can study, take a course, work the internet, write papers

Hopefully his loved ones will encourage him to stay positive. They want him to be healthy and fun to be with. And, they should keep in touch to support and encourage.

We want to hear from you on this latest FAMILY CHALLENGE.