I’ve always been observant of older people. My parents taught me that from a very young age. Hold the door for them, don’t run in front of them, be patient, help them carry things, respect your elders, you know common courtesy stuff. But now that I might be one, I’m looking at them, us, me differently.

What catches my eye now is people coping with disabilities, both physical and mental. Before it was always a sense of compassion. Now, in addition to that, it’s wondering what I might have to deal with and how I might overcome them.

Mentally I started to notice a slight difference in my last year of work. I was having to look through my notes at times for stuff that used to be root memory. I set a high bar for myself so nobody else even noticed but I did, and I didn’t like the feeling of slipping.

I’ve been very lucky so far. I have friends that have hip and knee replacements. So far, I’m operating with all my original parts minus a few to cancer. I get around fairly well, all the limbs working and the mind is still clear most days.

But I know changes are coming. I’m already adapting in a lot of ways. My eyesight has probably been the worst decline. I wear glasses full time now. Luckily my other senses are in tip-top shape.

My strength and stamina aren’t what they were. Cold and heat affect me more. I must think about what I can, but shouldn’t do now which is a new element. My better half is good at identifying these things.

From here on out I’ll be dealing with adjustments. Stuff I used to take for granted. Like running around the yard playing water games with my granddaughter till my right knee gave out on me again.

Grandchildren will keep me feeling young and old at the same time for hopefully years to come.