Journal Activity: Week 1

(Note: I used my blog for last week's introduction - please see the previous post for my introduction and reflection about what I would like to learn and accomplish in this class.)

My assumptions regarding aging and disabilities come from three major experiences in my life: growing up with a parent with a disability (epilepsy), working at the public library, and watching my grandparents and other close relatives age. I want to believe that one can still live a fulfilling life even as one experiences the physical and mental changes of growing older, or the challenges that come with having a disability - I've seen it happen. I've also seen quite the opposite happen - a grandparent paralyzed after a stroke and unable to care for herself anymore, or a parent unable to apply for jobs that require a valid driver's license because their disability prevents them from driving. I've had older library patrons apologize for talking too much at the information desk, and they often explain that they're old, lonely (friends are dead, their children don't keep in touch), and unable to get out as often as they used to. It's very depressing.

On that note, here are my assumptions about what I believe to be true about disabilities and aging:

1) Getting older or having a disability is difficult, physically and mentally. It can oftentimes be a lonely experience as well.

2) The ability to maintain a high quality of life as one ages or as one lives with a disability depends on one's support group and financial situation. For those aging adults and individuals that have the support of friends and family, plus a stable financial situation, their quality of life will most likely be very good. For those without those two things, they're going to have a rough time.

3) Aging and disabled individuals need an advocate. Yes, you can be your own advocate, but there are times when you need someone else to fight on your behalf, whether it's for a job, housing, medical services, etc.