Old Doesn’t Mean Useless

Dad and Cow at BACFaces Blurred

How often have you heard, or perhaps even said yourself, that old people are a drain on society? That they sit around drawing social security, draining the Medicare system, use up resources that others could benefit from? Actually, studies show that older people may be more productive than younger people. They’ve been found to be loyal, reliable, responsible employees. When they try new jobs, they bring a lifetime of experience with them and often are able to get along with others, offer alternatives, and find fulfillment in their work.

Take my dad, Bob Gallagher, for example. When he was 76 years old I jokingly asked him if he wanted to be a temporary usher with us at the Big Apple Circus when the show came to town. To my surprise he answered, “Sure! Why not?” From that year forward, every time the circus came to town Bob was there working. When he could no longer walk up and down the stairs in the big top to show people to their seats, he became a ticket taker. Although the job didn’t pay well and only lasted a couple of weeks each fall, he took it very seriously and looked forward to it until he died at 83.

People are living longer than ever before. It’s important to have something meaningful to do with the extra years. You don’t have to join the circus, but how will you spend the later portion of your life? What will bring you joy and fulfillment?

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