When Do We Stop Living and Start Aging? by Terry Quigley, Sr. Vice President of Operations, Episcopal Communities & Services.

Terry described the bitter-sweet moment when she was offered her first “Senior Discount”, the realization that she is now older, yes she accepted the 10% discount! The Baby Boomer population is aging and reaching retirement and while they are more educated, they also face challenges. Among them, many are likely to be single with no children,  hence a limited support group, some even have more ex-spouses than children.

In the senior housing arena, “Old” is late 80’s or often over 90, a new phenomenon with people living longer and getting the benefit of improved medical technology.  One example is tiny hearing aids that fit inside your ear, invisible to others.  Robots that help remind people to take medicine, assist with communication and even monitor vitals.  Another example of improved technology is Doctors using teleconferencing technology to diagnose medical conditions or prescribe medication without physically seeing the patient.

Boomers are also working longer to avoid financial issues, despite this, 20% or more seniors live with income below the poverty level.  The recent impact of longer life expectancy combined with the “Perfect Storm” of the great recession, rising costs, a shrinking family safety net have combined to negatively impact the aging population especially with respect to housing.

Live Long, Die Short… a concept encouraging active, exercising seniors, eating natural, wine in moderation, having a purpose, keeping stress low, demonstrating a faith, keeping close to family and surrounding yourself with like minded friends.

The Episcopal Communities organization encourages seniors to continue LIVING NOT AGING!

Their mission is Creating Exceptional Communities and Services for Seniors, a vital mission for this time.  www.ecsforseniors.org