Aging in Place: With whatever we have left
The article below talks about how the aging population is faced with the challenge of wanting to age in place but not having all of the skills and abilities they once had. Touching on the challenge of living at home, it does take courage to age in place. We encourage people to utilize natural supports and assistive technology. Take a look at this article about aging in place with whatever we have left.
AGING IN PLACE: With whatever we have left
Years ago, I heard a story about the great violinist Itzhak Perlman, who was playing a concert at Carnegie Hall. Just as he began, one of the strings on his violin snapped with a loud "twang." The audience became restless because they understood this would cause a long delay.
Due to polio in his youth, Mr. Perlman moves slowly. It would take a while for him to make his way backstage. Then, there would be a wait for the violin to be restrung. Finally, there would be his slow return to the stage. Row by row the audience quieted as people realized the violinist was not leaving the stage; instead, he was still sitting there, head bowed in concentration.
Finally, Carnegie Hall was silent and Mr. Perlman began to play without the missing string. Those in attendance that night insisted it was one of the greatest concerts they had ever experienced. After the applause had died down, Mr. Perlman stood and made this statement, "It is the challenge of the artist to do as much as he can with whatever he has left."