Ours is a society in which one's value is too often measured in terms of physical strength. This has engendered feelings of uselessness among many elderly, which in turn, contributes to depression.
The Torah perspective, which prefers wisdom to physical strength as a measure of value, holds the elderly in high esteem. For it is with age and the experience of life that one gains wisdom. Whereas the physical strength of an aging person may be diminished, the faculties of the mind are enhanced. It is for this reason that the elderly must occupy and utilize their mental faculties, and aspire to greater spiritual growth. I advocate the establishment of learning institutions for the elderly for this express purpose.
My thoughts on aging. Well I might be different than most but I like to think of myself as different. Or a better word would be unique. Makes it sound better to be old. Or when much younger people find out how old you are and say age is only a number. I can think of a better word to describe them. Or when they say you don't look that old. I not bitter about my age but I don't like being put in a box that all people are alike. I do have aches and pains. But you don't see people saying to athletes. Sorry you are in so much pain. And the end of the conversation. But old people are given a small list on why they are in pain. I don't need your list just your understand. I'm just like everyone else. Just more time on this earth. Sandra Liat Iler Grohnke