Melissa Sodowick, Princeton
This month, we celebrate the vitality, aspirations and contributions of older adults, as May is Older Americans Month, a tradition since 1963. The theme this year is “Unleash the Power of Age.”
As a care manager at Secure@Home, a non-profit program designed to help older adults “age in place,” in their own homes, I see firsthand, the power of age. It is true that among many of our members, ages 60 to 100, we see a myriad of medical issues and need for assistance be it with transportation, house cleaning, personal care, or advocacy; but in one way or another, all of these older adults are powerful. I am astounded by their energy, vast talents, wisdom, commitment to their communities, and life experiences.
Those I have the privilege of working with are retired professionals from various fields, as well as current professors, consultants, authors, composers, artists, and philanthropists. They are also cyclists, hikers, cross country skiers, yogis, swimmers, and tennis players. They are community organizers, nonprofit board members and volunteer librarians, drivers and tutors.
They travel as close to home as New England and as far away as India. They have shared stories with me about their families, careers and service in the military and with civic organizations.
But it’s not just their experiences and vitality I admire. I also appreciate their resilience. Even when facing health issues, these seniors look for ways to take care of themselves and make informed decisions, from seeking referrals for doctors, physical therapists and home health care, to signing up with Secure@Home to assess their needs and help maintain independence.
Those in the role of caregiver show resilience too, by securing ongoing assistance and support not just for their loved one, but for themselves.
Before Older Americans Month wraps up, let’s take time to acknowledge parents, grandparents, older neighbors and friends who’ve enriched our lives. I can say that the older adults I work with have enriched mine.
Melissa Sodowick
Care Manager, Secure@Home
Princeton