Aging - In This Day and Age

Modern medicine has made it possible to grow old. Very old. But I'm wondering - maybe too old?

As I watch my grandfather grow older, and listen to my friends speak about their grandparents, I have to wonder if we've gone too far. At what point to we cross the line from keeping someone happy and comfortable to preserving a life that has been stripped of all - or at least most - of its joy and dignity?

I think our loved ones, as they get older, should be encouraged to live their lives the way they want to. And I'm wondering how many people would select an intervention or medical therapy that prolongs their life if they know they will age to the point that they can't move around as they wish? Or feed themselves? Or maybe the worst of all - use the bathroom independently?

And when, as a family member or care giver, is it time to intervene and demand that someone no longer drive their car? Or leave their home to reside in an assisted living facility or family member's home? On the one hand, an adult is an adult and should make their own decisions. But I can't exactly argue that point when it comes at the safety of themselves, and even more so the general public.

As of late my grandfather - who is generally a very sweet person - has been encountering all types of obstacles that come with aging. To make a long story short, his confusion (and perhaps stubbornness) has caused him to attempt to physically harm nurses and be either medically sedated or restrained in the hospital. Now he's in rehab eating food he hates, drinking liquid that's been thickened (gross, he'll tell you every chance he gets), allowing the days to pass by. He doesn't like to read or watch TV because he's experiencing double vision. His hearing is going. And he can't walk on his own. It breaks my heart! Seeing (and hearing) his frustration is just terrible.

Now the goal is that he will be rehabilitated to some sort of level of independence. Time will tell how much improvement his body is capable of. But will he ever be able to do his favorite thing - drink a highball and eat a nice, salty meal after a long day of fishing? Or play cards with his friends? Or dance with my Grandma? We can only hope for a miracle!!!

This has sparked so many conversations among my family. And as much as I hate to hear my Dad say he wants to get to a certain age and get hit by a bus, I kinda understand where he's coming from!!!