|
We want to acknowledge and celebrate that May is
Older Americans Month (OAM). To honor OAM, we are featuring two women who exemplify what it means to "Age Out Loud."
The Magnolia Prime Team
|
|
The 2017 OAM theme,
Age Out Loud, is designed to give aging a new voice—one that reflects what today’s older adults have to say. This theme shines a light on many important trends.
More than ever before, older Americans are working longer, trying new things, and engaging in their communities. They’re taking charge, striving for wellness, focusing on independence, and advocating for themselves and others.
|
|
|
Our first resident is Eileen Barnes. She is 84, with six grandchildren, and lives at Wesley Manor in Campbell. Before retiring she worked in a number of capacities. She was a substitute teacher, a trainer of foreign doctors on how to treat patients, a costume designer for different theater groups, and ran Public Relations for a theater group.
Since retiring she has become very active in the
League of Women Voters. She does Public Relations including press releases, working with the media, and publicizing events. She enjoys the people she meets, the discussions they have, doing a service for the community, and studying issues – these are all fascinating to her. “The enthusiasm and interest is exciting.”
What does volunteering do for Eileen? “
Volunteering keeps me alive. I don’t want my world to be just about me. Volunteering is so rewarding because it gives you the opportunity to engage with people on things that interest you.”
Her words of wisdom? “
Be prepared for change, be open to what life brings your way and embrace it. Work on staying positive and fearless. Fear of the unknown can be crippling.”
What does she have to say about retirement? “Things change more than you think, like your health, which can be discouraging. It is a full-time job staying positive and grateful. It is hard because you lose friends.”
How does Eileen Age Out Loud?
“I Age Out Loud by treasuring family, friends, community, and having faith in the future, whatever it brings.”
|
|
Our second resident is Carol Nolan. She is 70 years-old, has raised four children, and lives at the Northridge Cooperative Homes in San Francisco. Before retiring, Carol worked for the San Francisco Medical Society as receptionist and secretary. One of her passions is traveling
. She has been to many interesting places, including China, Turkey, Spain, Brazil, and Rio de Janeiro.
Since retiring, she does line dancing, wellness activities, volunteers for the
Food Pantry, and last but not least, she has not given up on her
passion for traveling. In 2018 she will go to Vietnam. Also, Carol is an 8-year Breast Cancer Survivor and donates her time to help the cause.
Her advice to the younger generation? “
Enjoy life, have fun, and save your money.”
Her advice to other seniors? “
Stay healthy and active, and keep your brain going.”
How does Carol Age Out Loud?
“I Age Out Loud by being active, traveling, focusing on being happy, and enjoying my community.”
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
