Lessons Of Life Through Elder’s Eyes

i thought today I would share some insight about what I have learned and gained from working with the elderly.

I am compelled to share as I find so many people discount what they can offer to anyone.

This is kind of a hard topic to broach for me because trying to pinpoint the most important aspects and lessons is like pulling apart a crystal to see what parts are more valuable. To me, the whole experience is a valuable and precious gem.

But for the sake of not being overbearing and boring. I will choose the lessons and tidbits that stand out to me.

Lessons On Life From Elders Eyes

1. Life can change in an instant – live everyday like its your last
(My client used to dance ballet in Europe and sing Opera in England before she moved to Canada)
2. Hold onto memories or record them in a book too quickly they can be forgotten
(Alzheimer’s and dementia robs you off your precious memories)
3. Cherish where you rest your head no matter how big or small your home
(One day your surroundings will be so foreign and strange to you – the room you took pride replaced with hospital and nursing home rooms)
4. Keep a box of special trinkets
(They can travel with you when you can no longer stay home)
5. Write letters to those you love and tuck away
(One day your voice will be lost to what you need to say)
6. Sometimes listening with your heart to what cannot be said is more important
7. Little things we take for granted will one day seem so huge when lost
8. A simple hello can cheer up a scared and feeling alone seniors day
9. Listen to the stories that they tell – wisdom and experience is hidden in the lines
10. Human touch is sometimes more important than words – its universal and can reach the farthest corners of the heart

Please Remember Me.. (Originally written In 2006)

Lost inside a lifeless body – so tired and so weak

Although there is so much to do or say

I am unable to move and barely able to speak

I see you look at me with such pity and despair

Do you not realize I too feel it is not fair

Please know I am the same person inside

I did not ask for this to happen on this ride

There is so much I wish I could tell you and say

Emotions to express to you that have not gone away

This illness and stroke has robbed me of a sound mind

 Ravaged my body – making me wither away every time

However my soul is still alive – scared and so very lonely inside

I pray that you know how much I love you and appreciate what you have done for me

I value and enjoy your company

Although it seems that I do not know and cannot show it

I feel you here and know that it tears at your heart

 If you hold on to the good memories – we will never be apart

 If God should call me home soon when my time does come

I know you will be sad but you’ll understand

For my body is tired and this fight is so hard to endure

Know that you have done all you could my dear

Remember me as what I used to be – I ask of you

Don’t let the good memories be drowned out by this time of suffering

I will always be the woman you remember me to be

Your love and support will set me free

Dedicated to Stella Myles