Surviving the OLD FOLKS' HOME

Living in an "Old Folks Home," can be a joy. However, there's a lot more to it than walkers, canes, and power chairs, so don't assume this geriatric crowd is dull. If you're a writer, the events playing out right in front of you is such prime material-to observe and record in print. The author was a happy mountaineer until he began noticing that his age-related health issues were worsening, and decided he needed to be closer to family and medical facilities. That's why he moved into an old folks home down in the flatlands. But what a different world it was! The contrast with his previous lifestyle was so stark that he rebelliously responded: first by resuming his active life style as much as he was able, and second, by writing what he witnessed, in a light and humorous tone, perhaps as a bit of comedy relief. He brings to life for you amusing dialogs overheard, compelling events and drama, and intriguing relationships, illustrating brilliantly a-slice-of- daily-life perspective in this senior living community. This book also considers the more serious realities of getting old, including memory loss and mental illness. It reports what to expect in a senior community, and offers useful information on how to evaluate a senior housing facility. While succinctly encapsulating the realities of aging, the author's hilarious vignettes and injections of dry humor are sure to bring smiles to readers' faces.