UNEXPECTED

This is what a blog looks like when you leave it hanging. Unintentionally. 

Space

Space

And you’ve seen it right here for several weeks.. This empty space was the result of an unexpected event. I did not mean to do it. Just like I did not ever mean for dead-air while I worked in broadcasting. Dead air and empty spaces are equally verboten. Not permitted. Unacceptable to the extreme.

I had researched a topic, opened a Substack account and was poised to write. When…And then…

Unexpectedly I stopped.

Writing. Altogether.

Ah. Yet another adventure in aging.

The unexpected happens. Especially during the advanced aging process - because according to my theory, (Yes, I've developed several) we’ve become more vulnerable mentally as well as physically. 

Now, everyone over aged ten has been warned that unexpected events happen when you are least prepared for them. But how does one prepare for the unexpected? Simple answer is you cannot. 

I have no idea why I abruptly stopped. I know concentration and caring became a problem.  Does anyone really care about the obstacles in aging? Perhaps I should write about sex... after seventy. Maybe some other controversial topic? I was totally stymied. 

The physical issues are fairly well-known on this aging journey of ours but the mental issues? No one wants to talk about those - beyond dementia. We explore because we want, no, need to know more as scientists seek a cure. Diagnosed mental illness obtains research and funding. But not all is diagnosed yet.

Depression among the elderly is steadily gaining more attention. It's a question asked on Medicare tests, "Are you depressed?" "Do you experience depression?"  (No one says yes.)

Elderly depression and anxiety is acknowledged by doctors but dismissed by superagers who refuse to have their somewhat lofty (longevity) status challenged or tarnished. Besides, there's a pill for that! 

Have I suffered from a sudden lack of self-confidence or a spurt of depression? I truly don't know. But when facing the unexpected, I know we all benefit from time, professionals, family, friends, and yes, even ourselves. Be ready! 

Enjoy another small triumph signaling the end of another un-asked for adventure in aging.