Aging: Expectations vs Reality

Donna Nichols • July 23, 2021

When we were young, we had these expectations of how our lives would be when we were older.

How did that work out for you?

Not even close in my case!

I was going to have a big, beautiful house with servants, be a full-time writer, have lots of money (without having to work for it), be able to do whatever I want any time I want, have a great husband, and look like a supermodel.

Well, I do have a great husband!

Sometimes you just have to laugh at the things life throws at you, otherwise, you’ll be miserable. You have to remember, things always work out the way they are supposed to, there is a plan for everything.

Remember when we were young and we walked along the curb or ran up or down the stairs?

Now we have to look down at the curb and step up or down ever so carefully and forget about stairs!!

Who would have thought curbs and stairs would be scary?!?!? You can actually throw a hip out just by stepping off a curb!

What the?

I remember when I was a teenager and I thought 70 was so old , HA! Now, when I hear someone passed away at 70 years-old, I think, Oh my, they are so young! Funny how things change over the years.

Aging: Expectation vs Reality

I like what Neil Gaiman said, 

“There are things I miss about being younger - chiefly the ability to pull all-nighters and keep working and working well; and being smiled at by girls I didn’t know who thought I was cute; and I wish I had the eyesight I had even five years ago… but that stuff feels pretty trivial.”

Remember when you were younger and you’d get off work, go out for dinner or eat at home, then go out and do something, go to a club, play golf, walk on the beach, anything?

Or how about traveling? Do you still do that like you did when you were younger?

How long has it been since you started a new hobby? No, not thought about it, actually started it.

We all have good intentions, like starting a new hobby, we think, Oh, I’d love to start doing this or that, but what happens? You eat dinner, clean up, watch the news and are ready for bed at 8:00 p.m. HA! I know I am!

The energy level is gone!!

Also, how about sitting up all night watching tv. Now, it’s too uncomfortable to sit in a chair and watch tv, so you watch it from your bed. How did that work for you? How much of the show or movie did you miss?

I usually pass out within fifteen (15) minutes. Gotta love getting old.

When you were young you never had to write your passwords or phone numbers down, now it’s like you have to have a book for everything!! I have to write down EVERY phone number AND have them stored in my phone.

Passwords, forget about it!! I try to pick the easiest ones I can think of so I can remember them. If you do write down your passwords, PLEASE make sure they are in a safe place!!

There are so many expectations we had when we were young that do not turn out like they were supposed to, but that is life and you have to laugh about it or you will shrivel up and die.

I want to leave you with a couple of closing thoughts.

Not everyone gets the privilege of getting old. Do whatever it takes to enjoy it.

If you’re looking for other senior living articles and resources then click here.

Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.

Eleanor Roosevelt

If you need help or encouragement as a Caregiver give us a call at  386-847-2322 or check out our  Caregiver Support Group. Our  Senior Advisors  are here to walk with you through this journey.

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Staying Active as the Weather Warms

By Donna Nichols • April 17, 2026
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Allergy Season Is Here: What Seniors Should Know

By Donna Nichols • April 2, 2026
April in Florida means sunshine, flowers, and… pollen. Lots of pollen. For many seniors, allergy season can bring sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue — symptoms that can be frustrating but manageable with awareness and simple habits. Here’s what older adults and caregivers should keep in mind as allergy season peaks. 1. Allergies Can Change Ov er Time Even if someone never had allergies before, they can develop later in life. The immune system shifts with age, and new sensitivities can appear. If symptoms show up suddenly each spring, allergies may be the reason. 2. Pollen Counts Are Highest in the Morning For seniors who enjoy morning walks or porch time, this can be a surprise. On high‑pollen days, shifting outdoor time to later in the afternoon can make a big difference. 3. Staying Hydrated Helps Ease Symptoms Water thins mucus, supports the immune system, and helps the body flush irritants. Seniors often drink less than they realize, so gentle reminders — a water bottle nearby, herbal tea, flavored water — can help. 4. Keep the Indoors as Allergen‑Free as Possible A few simple habits go a long way: • Keep windows closed on high‑pollen days • Change air filters regularly • Remove shoes at the door • Shower or change clothes after being outside These small steps help reduce the amount of pollen that sneaks indoors. 5. Pay Attention to New or Worsening Symptoms If allergy symptoms feel different than usual, last longer than expected, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes what looks like allergies can be something else entirely. A Breath of Fresh (and Cleaner) Air Allergies may be part of spring, but they don’t have to steal the joy of the season. With a little awareness and a few simple habits, seniors can stay comfortable, active, and able to enjoy everything April has to offer.

Why Are Seniors Always So Cold?

By Donna Nichols • March 9, 2026
If you’ve ever walked into a room full of older adults and noticed the sweaters, shawls, and space heaters humming in the corner, you’re not imagining it — many seniors really do feel colder than everyone else. And it’s not just a quirk. There are real, physical reasons behind it, and understanding them can make daily life a lot more comfortable. 1. Our Internal Thermostat Changes Over Time As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature. The internal “thermostat” in the brain doesn’t respond as quickly to cold, so seniors may feel chilly even when the room is warm enough for others. 2. Less Muscle = Less Heat Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, and muscle is what helps generate body heat. With less of it, the body simply produces less warmth. Even active seniors may notice they get cold more easily than they used to. 3. Thinner Skin and Reduced Circulation Skin becomes thinner over time, offering less insulation. On top of that, circulation often slows, meaning warm blood takes longer to reach hands, feet, and other extremities. This is why fingers and toes are often the first to feel icy. 4. Medications Can Play a Role Many common medications — including those for blood pressure, thyroid issues, or depression — can affect how warm or cold someone feels. It’s not always the medication itself, but how it interacts with the body’s temperature signals. 5. Underlying Health Conditions Conditions like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or poor circulation can all contribute to feeling cold. Sometimes, persistent chilliness is the body’s way of asking for a check-in with a healthcare provider. 6. Hydration and Nutrition Matter More Than You Think Dehydration and low-calorie intake can both make the body feel colder. Seniors who don’t drink enough water or who eat lightly may notice they’re chilly more often. Simple Ways to Stay Warm and Comfortable • Layer up with breathable fabrics • Keep moving — even gentle stretching boosts circulation • Warm beverages throughout the day • Use blankets or heated throws safely • Check room drafts and adjust thermostat settings • Talk with a doctor if coldness is new or worsening A Warm Note to Close Feeling cold isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a natural part of aging. With a few small adjustments and a little awareness, seniors can stay cozy, comfortable, and confident all year long.