In today's world it seems that everything is "disposable." If something doesn't work great you get rid of it. Many items are even created to be disposable: diapers,paper cups, cameras, and toothbrushes to name just a few. If you start to have trouble in your marriage, divorce has become the common solution. Simply dispose of the relationship. If an item gets old and starts to show wear and tear we dispose of it.

People however are not disposable. No matter how much age, wear or tear people are not disposable. Maybe all their parts don't function properly and they aren't able to perform in the manner they once could. Maybe they have limited mobility. Nevertheless people are not disposable.

We all age - if we are blessed. We need to think in terms of positive solutions when the people in our lives are no longer able to care for themselves. We need to respect them and treat them with the same dignity we would want given to us.

Over the years, I have told my friends that I want to find a large home that will have lots of rooms so my friends will have a place to live and share responsibilities when our bodies and minds start to slow down and need repair. It would be a large, welcoming environment that would have space for our sons and daughters and grandchildren to come and visit. I envision a brightly colored place with lots of windows to bring in the light and a yard for enjoying being outside.

It is a dream that I will work to make a reality. In the meantime, I am learning that caring for a man of 85 years requires great patience (not necessarily my strong suit) and the willingness to adapt my lifestyle. It is evident that this current arrangement is only temporary. Whether the solution is to have this gentleman live with his son and wife long term or to find a retirement, long term care home for him the ultimate goal is to make sure he is safe and respect his desire for a positive quality of life.

In many parts of the globe, seniors are revered. The Elders of the tribe have the power and are respected for their wisdom. In the United States it seems that as men and women grow older they become invisible. The only place I know that there is a plethora of elderly gentlemen in power is in Congress and the Supreme Court. Hmm, I wonder what vitamins they take to have the wisdom and energy to run a country when most people past 80 are considered ready to be put out to pasture.

People are not disposable. To all those wonderful, kind hearted people who have devoted their life to helping the aged; to all those amazing, caring people who have sacrificed to take care of their aunts, mom and family; to all that have made providing assisted living a priority - I send my deepest respect and admiration.