Jmore recently spoke with six local Jewish seniors to receive insights, in their own words, on how best to enjoy one’s twilight years.
‘Don’t Despair’
Edith Sherr has lived at North Oaks Senior Living Community in Pikesville for the past 16 years. A New York native and widow, she is a retired educator and mother of one daughter and grandmother of three.
“I came here straight from New York, so I tell people, ‘I don’t live in Baltimore, I live in North Oaks.’ This is my life here and I’m very happy. Nothing is perfect, but this is as good as it gets. We tend to be one big family and care about one another. If someone becomes a great-grandma here, everyone celebrates.
“Before COVID, I did a writing workshop, exercise classes, music programs, a book club and attended talks with excellent speakers. You’ve got to keep your mind active. I’m not talking about crossword puzzles. Be involved in the world, don’t isolate yourself.
“So many people don’t leave their homes and hole up. They’re so sad and despairing, it’s a pity. But you have to stay as physically and mentally active as you can. Be a caring person and don’t despair. Don’t be a Pollyanna. Recognize problems when they come up, but always find something to look forward to. Have hope for the future.
“When you get older, you understand what’s important and you don’t spend your time on trivial matters. Why waste your emotional energy on narrishkeit [nonsense]?
“The older you get, the more people you lose. So you can be more alone. But if possible, try to build relationships. Like if you come to a place like North Oaks, you can make friends and develop real relationships. It’s really necessary for one’s emotional health.
“I’m very lucky. I walk unassisted and I stay connected to the world. Of course, there are things you can’t do anything about when you get older. But you should keep trying and be involved. And keep hoping.”
This is the fourth in a six-part series. See Also: Erv and Marianne Sekulow | Rae Rossen | Martha Meier Weiman
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