Old-Old
February 11, 2024
I am about to lambast “old-old, ” a term used to describe anyone alive at age 85 or older. That includes me. But what does old-old mean?
Actually, what does just plain “old” mean? Are we as old as we feel? If that’s true, my “oldness” changes like the weather. When I am walking to the subway, bundled up from head to toe and observe others hatless with open jackets, I don’t feel so youthful. But when I climb the stairs in my apartment building without puffing, I feel quite fit and young.
To me, “old” is the (formerly) chic, chocolate-brown suede bomber jacket that has hung unworn in my closet since I retired, and, sometimes, “old” is the woman looking back at me from the mirror.
Would I like to be age 30 again? No way.
But 75 sounds good.
OH Baby!! I am in my late eighties ( Irish enough not to admit my actual age) and I feel 45 and not a year older, yes my wrinkles give me away but my heart and soul says loudly 45 and that is how I live my life. I have no problems walking 3-4 miles and hiking reading without glasses (except when my eyes get tired after an hour,then I have my throw away glasses)
Carol
Boston Irish Catholic and proud of it🥰
PS lent is coming up and I have to admit that I use my age as a crutch to not have to fast but don't tell anybody!!!
Posted by: Carol | February 11, 2024 at 08:52 AM
Thank you for this! I agree about the old-old category! I didn't retire as a professor until I was 87 and I never felt like one of the "old-old!" I have to say that I hate retirement. Someone needs to come up with another category for those of us who are chronologically gifted! If you were also a teacher, I hope you and I were both able to get across to students that they don't need to fear the years!
Posted by: Lucy | February 11, 2024 at 11:01 AM
Decades ago someone told me "Old is ten years older than you."
And, in fact. now being 84 and living in a retirement community with ages ranging from late 60's to over 100 I find myself thinking of old as 95 and young as 75.
Posted by: Paul Albert | February 11, 2024 at 12:13 PM
My father had a saying that I know is true ... Life begins at 40 and middle age begins at 80, which make me just about 2!!!!
Posted by: Rachel Eggleston | February 11, 2024 at 05:25 PM