Commun ty Matters Farmington Presbyterian Manor
June 2015
8 myths about aging, debunked By Pamela Blair for Next Avenue
The attitude that surrounds us is that old age in its most problematic sense starts somewhere between 50 or 60. Why is this? Perhaps we still buy into some outdated myths that life after 50 is the beginning of our decline. Living passionately and well, however, doesn’t stop at a certain point in one’s life followed by the destructive forces of aging. To age successfully, we need to be aware of the newer and older myths about aging that our current culture holds true. Here are 8 examples of the myths I’ve heard and what I know to be true: #1 Myth: Older women are depressed and lonely. Truth: Depending on circumstances, we may get sad and lonely from time to time, but the research shows that the least lonely and depressed women are over 75. #2 Myth: Older women are less successful in new pursuits. Truth: Some of the best and brightest women, though past the half-century mark in years, are still climbing the ladder of success in the world. MYTHS, continued on page 3
Entertainment was provided by Jim Burmeister and John Lodholz of “Jim-N-I.”
Selfless service
Volunteers recognized for time and talent at banquet From filling the counters and windowsills with beautiful blossoms to running basic errands for residents, the volunteers of the year at Farmington Presbyterian Manor go the extra mile to serve our residents and staff. Caroline Chastain was honored as Resident Volunteer of the Year and Carol Bloom was named Community Volunteer of the Year at the Volunteer Banquet in April. “We are so blessed. We have a phenomenal volunteer program, and it’s growing,” said Teresa Pinkley, Presbyterian Manor’s volunteer coordinator. Chastain creates floral arrangements that brighten the building inside and out. She decorates the patio on holidays and in the summer with flowers, Pinkley said, working with the blooms and greens. “Her creativity never ceases to amaze me,” Pinkley said. “She has a skill for arranging flowers and making our nurses’ stations and windowsills beautiful.” SERVICE, continued on page 2