I've been told for ages that aging is not for sissies and while I was younger, I would laugh and think that's a crazy thing to say. But now that I am in that "older" category, I'm beginning to understand what everyone was talking about!!
We get glimpses of what will happen when and if we are/were lucky enough to look after our aging parents. We learn to help them do those little tasks that they find difficult. What we don't see is that one day (God willing) it will be us who are in need of that help.
Thank goodness there are so many "tools" out there, that benefit us as we are aging. Let's look at just a couple of these tools.
My first most important tool, is a really good pair of walking shoes. Shoes that fit nice, are easy to put on and take off, and give my feet the support they need. After all just because we are getting older doesn't mean that we should just sit down and not move. As a matter of fact, walking is the best exercise you can get for all ages, but especially as you are aging. So for me, those walking shoes are the " Skechers Slip In shoes". They are great shoes and I have one pair for walking and another pair for more dressy occasions. I have given up wearing dresses for the ease and comfort of trousers, so there is no need for me to wear high heels at any time. anymore. A small price to pay for comfort! But just for added convenience, they are so light on your feet that I know you will love them.
The Second tool that I would highly recommend for anyone who loves walking, but has just a little fear of falling, would be my Walking Poles. I have written about these poles before, but I must mention them again. These poles are wonderful for giving you that extra little bit of help with balance. While we are aging our sense of balance and our vision seem to deteriorate. These walking poles are amazing for help with easing that small difficulty. Once you start using them, you will find that you just don't want to go out without them. If you want to read more check out my "older" story here! Formally called Nordic Walking Poles, they are a must have in our home and our life.
My third tool for today is a Grabber, Reacher Tool! Just last year, I took a tumble and broke my shoulder. Yes, I did do that. It wasn't fun and the aftereffects were not a whole bunch of fun either. But the good news is that my shoulder still works. So I'm thankful for that. But the bad news is that my reach isn't what it used to be. So I find that many times I need just that little bit of extra help to get things into and out of the cupboard. Enter my new friend in the kitchen, the Grabber/Reacher tool! So no more excuses for leaving things on the counter for someone else to put away, grab the tool and put it to use.
All of these tools are good for younger people as well, they aren't made just for seniors. But if you have a senior in your life and they don't have some of these tools, they would make a great gift!
I have decided that the most important thing for me in 2026 is to be gentle with myself. Realize that aging is a gift that many don't get! It will take me a little longer to do the things that I used to do with ease. But, I'm still here to do them. Even if I do them a little slower and with some added help.
Aging is a process and each day a new challenge can and possibly will arise, so be ready and make it easier on yourself by using the tools that are out there!
Every day is a gift and we need and should be gentle with ourselves as we open our eyes to all kinds of new possibilities!
