Older adults sometimes find themselves feeling invisible, or irrelevant, or insecure. Some of us whisper to our mirrors that we get fewer approving glances when we walk down the street than we used to. Some of us are relieved. Some feel the pang of loss. Adjusting to new circumstances can be challenging. We find ourselves searching for a new sense of identity and purpose. Thinking of moving into retirement? It may feel strange. Think of all the time we spent in our careers, too busy or not interested in building relationships, finding community, and working on our inner lives. It takes time to learn to live with the uncertainty of our daily activities and a more open calendar. It may feel uncomfortable not to be able to explain what we do by naming our profession. We may conclude that the best of life is over. And these are painful thoughts. I’m not going there.
