Going to Casa de Manana was a different kind of eye opening experience. The retirement home did not look like one at all, it was a beautiful resort with a wide ocean view and great amenities for all the residents. Payment though was clearly much more than most elderly could afford. I felt like even if I were at that age I would not have been able to afford it. Though it was clear that the residents there were more privileged than most elderly, the senior that I spoke to was one of the most inspirational women I’ve ever met. Her name was Alice and she was 98 years old, but she did not look like it at all. She had stopped playing tennis only 2 years ago, because she was injured, which also amazed me. She explained to us the importance of fitness, knowing about our history, and taking control of our lives. She said that even though she was old, her life was not over. She said that she wasn’t like those elderly who weren’t present after a certain period of time. It was also interesting to learn that she went to the recent women’s march and inspired other elderly residents to go with her as well. Alice made me feel very hopeful for the future and inspired me to continue to move forward with my future. I would love to go back to Casa de Manana and speak to other residents as well because I’m sure each one of them has their own unique story and way of inspiring the younger generation.
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Micah BanawisArchives
June 2018
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