Seniors in Seattle

I’m getting all sorts of stories by volunteering at the senior center. Today a couple in their mid-80s came in to check out the place and they were pleased with all the free offerings. The husband told me that they had been married for 56 years – “2 decent ones and 54 years of abuse.” The wife said that he was fine company except for his obsession with football, and that she planned to murder him this Sunday during the Seahawks playoff game. Not missing a beat, I offered the phone number of a social worker for counseling and suggested she look into our legal advocacy services. We all had a good laugh. It felt so familiar, and I realized I had gone back in time and was chatting with replicas of my parents, when they were both still healthy and funny. It was delightful to have a glimpse of that love again.

The center is pursuing a liquor license to expand its appeal (and revenue). Apparently there’s a new law allowing distinct licensure for senior centers, with few restrictions other than keeping minor children away from the booze. Washington State isn’t just about giving bartenders more work. There are now guidelines for “bud-tending.” Along with medical marijuana dispensaries, wedding and private party planners are hiring folks who “must have a ridiculous sense of humor, squeaky-clean criminal record and an appreciation for platinum-level customer service” - I found this description on simplyhired.com. Not to minimize the benefit to patients who want high quality pot for legitimate reasons, but can you imagine what kinds of recreational programs could be available at retirement facilities as the boomers age?

Meanwhile, Dad is doing well and enjoying himself. He doubled his cocktail intake at happy hour yesterday, adjusted his insulin accordingly, and then excelled at the “You Play the Judge” trivia competition today. I never cease to be amazed at his resilience.

Middle-Aged Learnings

I’m halfway through my UCLA online program in patient advocacy, there’s quite the eclectic mix of students. The participants include a firefighter, nun, hospice worker, emergency room nurse, financial advisor, human resources manager, entertainment professional, high risk youth counselor, and lawyer. And then there’s me, whatever I am. During this quarter I’m also renewing my insurance licensure with exams about identity fraud and income maximization – what a schizophrenic stew!

I now volunteer as a receptionist at the local senior center, which is never dull and sponsors monthly karaoke bingo. Seattle is fortunate to have lots of community resources; folks of all ages enthusiastically attend classes in self-improvement and like to hike in the rain. Last week a reasonably attractive guy showed up and said “hey I turned 65, how the hell did that happen and what perks do I get?” Yikes, that may soon be my opening line. I’m going to help with an early memory loss chorus (singing is great therapy as music is stored in a part of the brain that is last affected by dementia).

On the Dad front, Sid had a fun New Year’s date, drank too much and learned to gamble. He’s taking Advanced Yoga, works out at the fitness center, and does laundry as a form of physical therapy. I’m visiting him every month and will be taking Laura, my friend and neighbor, on an upcoming trip to share the adventure. Plus we get to hang out at the beach. It’s all good.