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Older generation
leaves a lasting mark
There is only one
solution if old age is not to be an absurd parody of
our former life, and that is to go on pursuing ends
that give our existence a meaning – devotion to
individuals, to groups or to causes, social,
political, and to intellectual or creative work.
One’s life has value so long as one attributes
value to the life of others, by means of
friendships, indignation, compassion.
This quote by
Simone De Beauvoir from Coming of Age embodies the
theme for Older Americans Month 2002: America – A
community for All Ages.
Older Minnesotans
comprise the generations that cared for us as
individuals and shaped our communities. When we
examine the past, whether we look at our families or
our community leaders, older Minnesotans are to be
commended. Their ingenuity and the sacrifices they
made to fight our wars, guide our schools and build
our highways, have paved the way for much of what we
have today in this country. Their contributions
should be valued.
While many younger
people view the Great Depression and World War II as
the stuff of schoolbooks, it was today’s older
adults who experienced these and other defining
moments in American history and, through them,
helped to shape the world in which we live. The
industry and creativity of older Minnesotans gave
the United States the technological edge needed to
fly the first intercontinental flight that in later
years helped to put the first man on the moon. Their
ingenuity and hard work have enabled the United
States to make many great and historic strides in
business, agriculture and health care.
Therefore, this
year’s theme includes elements emphasizing a
variety of important and diverse roles of older
persons, including:
- Caregivers to
other older persons
- Grandparents
raising grandchildren
- Volunteers
helping a broad spectrum of our population
- Skilled artisans
Our older
Minnesotans continue to merit our respect and
gratitude. They are an invaluable source of
knowledge and experience.
Over the years
older Americans have taught us many powerful lessons
about duty, faithfulness and honor. With those
lessons in mind, let us renew our determination to
help older Americans live with the independence,
comfort and security that they need and deserve.
The Minnesota Board
on Aging’s plan to help older Minnesotans
- Ensure that
in-home and community-based care is available to
help all older adults achieve the promise their
advanced years bring. We must build upon the
success that has already been achieved through
the aging network so that all older Americans
can lead engaged and productive lives in their
communities.
- Ensure that
information about aging services and assistance
to access those services are available resources
for Older Minnesotans and caregivers. These
services should be greatly expanded and enhanced
to meet the broad range of information and
resource needs for older Minnesotans and their
families. Information should be just a simple
phone call or keystroke away for those who need
it most.
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