Golden Years, Golden Challenges
As we age, life asks new things of us. Strategies that worked throughout earlier years may no longer serve us. This stage of life brings shifting realities — changes in focus, health, relationships, environments, and identity.
Common Challenges in Later Life
We will all experience many, if not all, of these challenges. The best thing we can do is acknowledge them and seek the help we need to adjust. These challenges can include:
shifting relationship dynamics
diminishing social, professional, and community engagement
loss of independence
transitioning to new environments
slowing down
declining physical and cognitive capabilities
grieving what was while adjusting to what is
Key Areas of Support to Thrive
Mental, Emotional, and Relationship Health
Understanding and accepting your new normal while still finding a path forward.
Developing emotional regulation strategies and mindfulness practices.
Maintaining and nurturing meaningful relationships.
Navigating grief and loss.
Learning how to ask for and receive help.
Looking forward to a rewarding future.
Communication and Advocacy
Understanding your wants and needs with clarity.
Having productive conversations with adult children, partners, and caregivers.
Advocating in healthcare and other settings.
Discussing challenging topics such as memory loss, end-of-life care, or driving cessation.
Structure and Strategy for Daily Life
Staying socially, mentally, and physically active.
Making cognitive changes with tools and routines (reminders, calendars, medication tracking, habit stacking).
Maintaining a sense of agency and engagement with life.
Navigating grief and loss.
Reimagining purpose (volunteering, new goals, grandparenting, part-time work, learning).
Connecting with loved ones and the world at large.