Just from the first two weeks of winter quarter, I am already seeing the charm of taking Life Course Scholars. Even though we have only met a total of three times, one being at the Mary and Gary West Senior Wellness Center, I find myself already becoming conscious of the architecture around us that could defer older adults from feeling comfortable living alone. Visiting the senior wellness center also put into perspective just how many older adults are struggling to find security and a community they could lean on. During the visit, I got the chance to talk to a table full of Filipino elders who meet everyday for lunch to go karaoke or join in exercises afterwards. They were extremely kind and welcoming to us, even giving us a goodluck apple because they don’t eat anything inorganic. Their happy demeanors honestly gave me reassurance that there is possibility to find friends or even a new “family” among each other. Although I know that is not the case for everyone, I left the senior center feeling grateful that there is such a sanctuary for seniors to gather and eat together.
One thing that took me by surprise was the number of meals that the senior center provided yearly. Even without substantial funding, the senior center was able to provide for 1.4 million meals! This was astonishing as they even delivered meals to those who could not come in person. Through this experience I discovered just how many misconceptions I had about aging and it reminded me that even though we age, our personalities and joys will be constant. I hope to continue to learn and grow as an individual who can contribute to the issue of ageism.
Reflecting on the past two weeks also made me think about the older adults in my life. Specifically, my grandparents in Korea and Jean. Jean is an older lady who I worked for during high school. During the pandemic, she had to get surgery for her leg and was unable to walk. Due to this, she hired me to help her with menial tasks like folding the laundry, putting away groceries, washing dishes, and more. At the same time, she acted as the caretaker for her bedridden husband. Looking back now, I realize that Jean was extremely strong mentally and had immense willpower to support her husband even when she was injured.
One thing that took me by surprise was the number of meals that the senior center provided yearly. Even without substantial funding, the senior center was able to provide for 1.4 million meals! This was astonishing as they even delivered meals to those who could not come in person. Through this experience I discovered just how many misconceptions I had about aging and it reminded me that even though we age, our personalities and joys will be constant. I hope to continue to learn and grow as an individual who can contribute to the issue of ageism.
Reflecting on the past two weeks also made me think about the older adults in my life. Specifically, my grandparents in Korea and Jean. Jean is an older lady who I worked for during high school. During the pandemic, she had to get surgery for her leg and was unable to walk. Due to this, she hired me to help her with menial tasks like folding the laundry, putting away groceries, washing dishes, and more. At the same time, she acted as the caretaker for her bedridden husband. Looking back now, I realize that Jean was extremely strong mentally and had immense willpower to support her husband even when she was injured.