As the original texts are written in Turkish, English translation is provided for non-Turkish readers. The author apologizes in advance for any and all possible changes and losses in meaning due to translation.
We recently had the opportunity to make an overseas trip with my mother. It was a nostalgic journey. My goal was to spend time together with her. Although my mother is older now, she is bravely struggling to remain physically and mentally active. Those who are born in the same generation as me and the ones born after the Baby Boomers period will probably have a longer, healthier, more independent, and more competent life than their parents. Increasing life expectancy is both a gain and a challenge for the individual and the society. According to the principle that my mother has adopted in her life, health does not only deteriorate during the life of the human being, but also becomes a phenomenon that needs to be struggled for every single day. I think the task of every individual and society should be: aging – staying active!
As well as physical activity, cognitive and social activities are also critical. In all respects, we must “actively get older” and maintain our mental agility. Here is a fact: Unused functions become dull. A rolling stone gathers no moss. We need to “age by learning and learn how to age” nowadays, more than ever before. The purpose of retirement is not to rest! Humans need a task, and the world needs volunteerism at all times: “It is favorable for you to do a favor!” The benefits of voluntary work touch and encourage older people as well as the society: encouraging by demand! A man without a duty will give up. For this reason, aging people need a task, appreciation, and motivation.
Although there are many types of aging, there is no norm of it! The more we age, the less our years in life mean anything about our abilities, skills, behaviors and the way we experience. Aging means not only the reduction and decrease of qualifications and potentials, but also increasing and gaining them. Aging also means increasing fragility and limitations after the ages of 70 and 80, which is experienced by more and more people. However, adjuvant technical in this regard can ensure that the independence of individuals is maintained to a great extent. However, it is also necessary to learn the use of laptops or tablets, and it is possible for people who are described as “very old” to learn how to use these. I think we should not forget our parents and grandparents while monitoring our young generations. As Cicero said: “Never start giving up and never give up starting!”.
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