Retirement isn’t an end, but a new beginning; Dr. Gifford-Jones presents Healthy Retirement Resident Living; What Does The Doctor Say?

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“A wealth of information creates a poverty of attention.” Herbert Simon

 So, let’s get to the point!

The ticking clock of time brings with it a poignant shift in family dynamics. Children, once nurtured and guided, now find ourselves in the unexpected role of caregivers for our aging parents. This delicate dance of shifting roles is often complicated by the demands of modern life: demanding careers, bustling households, and the responsibilities of raising our own families. This leaves many adult children grappling with the agonizing question: How can we best support our parents while navigating our own busy lives?

However, the reality of aging often presents unforeseen challenges. The prospect of parents transitioning to a retirement home, though perhaps necessary, can be a deeply emotional experience. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can quickly set in, exacerbated by the poignant realization that this may be the final chapter of their independent lives. The weight of past memories – cherished homes, vibrant communities, and a lifetime of cherished experiences – can feel heavy as they face this significant life change.

This period of transition requires a delicate balance of compassion, practicality, and understanding. It demands that we acknowledge the emotional toll on our aging parents while navigating the complexities of our own lives. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that this final chapter of their lives is filled with dignity, love, and a sense of belonging.

I am proud to introduce to everyone Dr. Gifford Jones, the 102-year-old Health and Wellness Writer for the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper. With over 60 years of experience as a physician and surgeon, he has dedicated his life to understanding the human body and navigating the complexities of health. HIs journey has taken him far and wide, from the operating room to the open seas as a ship’s surgeon, and even to the bustling environment of a hotel, where he encountered a diverse range of medical challenges.

“We have to teach people to manage their own health; the government won’t do it.”

For over 50 years, he has shared his knowledge through medical books and a weekly newspaper column, guiding readers on their health journeys. Now, as he embarks on a new chapter at 102, he has turned his attention to a topic close to his heart: retirement residences. Dr. Gifford Jones and his wife recently made the transition to living in a retirement home, a decision they initially approached with reluctance. However, as the demands of daily life became increasingly challenging, they recognized the need for a supportive environment.

With the encouragement of their family, they embarked on a journey to find the perfect retirement home. Now, having experienced this transition firsthand, he understands the intricacies and nuances of this significant life change.

“I am committed to helping others navigate this path with confidence and find peace of mind in their search for the ideal retirement residence.” Dr. Gifford-Jones

I was looking forward to speaking with Dr. Gifford-Jones. We had spoken before in the past, and his insights have changed my life. Who wouldn’t want to speak with someone who has lived to be 102; this wisdom that he has is priceless. I wanted to learn more about his journey into a retirement home, and the reason for putting this book out.

“What inspired you to write this book at this point in your life? Was there a specific event or realization that sparked the idea?”

“We have to teach people to manage their own health; the government won’t do it. Doctors can’t do it. Food companies are too busy making money. You have to be your advocate.”

“I have been living in this retirement home for one year. Sometimes it is not so healthy living. Most people who come here immediately start gaining weight, which is not good for you at any age. Obesity and Type 2 diabetes are increasing each year, and they are no fun. They are very expensive diseases and will bankrupt the system.”

“If I was going to recommend anything, I would say that we all need a: scale, a calorie counter, a step indicator, and a whole lot of motivation.”

“What challenges did you face in writing this book at your age, and how did you overcome them?”

“To be honest with you Simone, if I didn’t have this writing to do, I would go nuts. When you are in a home, there is not much you can do. There wasn’t a challenge; writing keeps me going.”

“What are some aspects of this book that we should pay close attention to?”

“Start living a good life and keep your weight under control. Don’t wait until you are 70 years old.”

In his book, Dr. Gifford Jones covers other health concerns relevant to the selection of a retirement home and to the individuals making the move. He reminds everyone to take a quick look around the most appealing of retirement homes. They tell a story.

I was also introduced to the Gifford-Jones Laws. Some of them are pretty humorous but hold the weight of wisdom. Some of the laws include:

• Taxicab drivers often have more common sense about medical and social issues than some doctors.
• If you keep heading for hell due to a dangerous lifestyle, you’ll eventually get there.
• One degenerative disease leads to another and another. It’s the sum of diseases that kills you.

This isn’t your typical saccharine retirement manual filled with platitudes about endless leisure. Instead, Dr. Gifford-Jones delivers a starkly realistic, yet ultimately empowering roadmap for thriving in your golden years. The book’s strength lies in its comprehensive approach, dissecting every facet of retirement living with meticulous detail and unflinching honesty.

One of the most compelling aspects is the book’s deep dive into the often-overlooked area of health. Recognizing the alarming lack of large-scale public health programs targeting lifestyle diseases in retirees, “Healthy Retirement Resident Living; What does the Doctor Say” takes matters into its own hands. It doesn’t just list common ailments; it dissects their root causes, empowering readers with actionable strategies to mitigate risks. From practical dietary advice to sensible exercise regimes and the crucial importance of mental well-being, the book provides a holistic framework for maintaining health and vitality. This section alone is worth the price of admission.

The book also tackles the daunting task of choosing a retirement residence. In a province like Ontario, with its overwhelming abundance of options, this can be a paralyzing decision. “Healthy Retirement Resident Living; What does the Doctor Say?” cuts through the noise, offering a clear and concise framework for evaluating different facilities. It doesn’t shy away from discussing the financial implications either, providing crucial insights into navigating costs and making informed choices.

Beyond the practical advice, “Healthy Retirement Resident Living; What does the Doctor Say?” resonates on a deeper level. It acknowledges the emotional and psychological transitions inherent in retirement, addressing the potential for loneliness, loss of purpose, and the challenges of adapting to a new rhythm of life. The book emphasizes the importance of social connections, maintaining mental stimulation, and finding new avenues for personal growth.

In a society that often neglects the specific needs of its aging population, Dr. Gifford-Jones’ book is a vital contribution. It’s a must-read for anyone approaching, or currently experiencing retirement, offering not just advice, but the knowledge and tools to navigate this new chapter with confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s a powerful reminder that retirement isn’t an end, but a new beginning – one that can be lived to the fullest.