So Much for My Well-Laid Plans
Life Presented Other Opportunities
In my March 4 post, I stated that over the weeks ahead, I would explore the “Framework for Change” as it applies to human intelligence, connect with other Substack writers and readers about the topics that surface, and expand upon the subject of Together We Can.
Then, on March 6, my wife’s younger brother suffered his second stroke in two years. Unlike the first, wherein he remained mobile and active despite a weakened left side, this one rendered him in a wheelchair. Previously living on his own as a confirmed bachelor, he is now staying with us for an indefinite time during his painful recovery path ahead.
So much for my well-laid plans.
The past six-and-a-half weeks have upset my sleep, diet, and exercise routines — in other words, taking care of myself, my responsibilities, and my relationships. When I was younger, such disruptions were inconvenient but tolerated. Now that I am in my mid-70s, they are downright unsettling. It has taken considerable effort to reach a new normal, and even that may be temporary. But it is what it is.
And then, life presented other opportunities.
Having cared for elderly family members in our home during their final years of declining health and mobility, ending with hospice, my wife and I experienced it all firsthand. Now, a few years later, we find ourselves re-immersed in the healthcare system, caring for another family member dealing with health issues and infirmities. This time, we realize we’re the next ones, “aging in place.” How do we apply what we’ve learned (and continue to learn) to our plans for the future?
Since we’re not the only ones confronted with this reality, the more open and explicit we can be about the process we follow, the more we can find our way and broadly share what we learn so that others can benefit, too. Furthermore, honoring my original intent to “connect with other Substack writers and readers about the topics that surface” contributes to a growing network of people with experience and know-how. Ultimately, it’s a win-win for all!
On a related note, the past couple of years have seen rapid advances in the development of Generative Artificial Intelligence (gen AI). Given their power and pervasiveness, these tools have become “helpmates” for millions worldwide, particularly those of us entering the ranks of “older people” (the politically correct term for “elderly”) whose memories are fading and whose cognitive prowess is declining — myself among them!
In addition to the tools, many on Substack are skillful practitioners of gen AI. Using these apps, plus my interconnectedness with those who know how to apply them, benefits my research and writing associated with Together We Can-Expanded Edition, beginning with “Understanding the Concept of Aging in Place,” which I posted to Greener Acres Value Network News.
Once again, “Thanks in advance for accompanying me in this next stage of my journey.”