Golden Nuggets of Elder Wisdom: 7 Lessons Learned From My Years in Senior Care

A Treasure Chest Of Knowledge

One thing this pandemic has provided for many of us is extra time. Time to think, time to do re-prioritize, time to set new goals, time to let items or habits go that did not honor our authentic selves, time to learn new things, and time to refocus or perfect hobbies or skills. While reviewing my own personal and professional goals this season, I remembered the posts I shared last year about lessons learned from the seniors I have worked with. As I went back through these golden nuggets, I fell in love with them again. I decided to share them in story-form in case others looking to re-define themselves during this quieter time would like to call upon the wisdom of some of our elders for guidance. We continue to learn about ourselves and life in general as we go through our aging or caregiver journeys (sometimes both simultaneously); I am hoping that by sharing this treasure chest of elder wisdom, all of our paths might become easier, more authentic, and definitely more joyful.❤️

Gold Nugget #1: Never Slow Down!

The quote on this picture is from one of the most amazing people I have had the pleasure of meeting. He used to live at a retirement home that I worked for and while I was caring for his wife, I was able to get to know Glenn as well. I could tell that he was an exceptional human and a devoted husband who had a positive attitude that wouldn't quit.

I've attached an article printed in our local paper, the San Diego Union-Tribune about Glenn that came out shortly after he passed away recently. It talks about some of the awesome, age-defying things he did in his older years and also describes his lifetime-love of high adventure. When he turned 100 three years ago, he celebrated by jumping out of a plane. For his 102nd birthday (!!!) he ziplined and he had also by that age, set two world records, one being the oldest person to publish a book (his autobiography). Glenn has since passed away and has left a huge void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Glenn, a life-long adventure junkie, and fitness buff believed in never slowing down which I've kept in mind when coaching and advising seniors to this day. In addition to keeping busy no matter what your age, here are a few more nuggets I learned from this outstanding gentleman:

- Life is an adventure- enjoy it!!!
- Tackle your bucket list, there is nothing worse than having regrets at the end of your life.
- Love deeply. When you lose someone, use that grief and pain as a motivator. Honor your loved ones by living your best life. Don't get frozen in the grief.
- Continually set new and bigger goals. At 103 years old, Glenn still was making plans! He had the idea to try bungee jumping and flying in a spacecraft- why not?!

I have included the link to the UT article below so you can read more about Mr. Quillin and when you do, you'll know why he was so dear to the hearts of many.