The quiet strength of a Wise Elder shines through the wrinkles and gentle hands, each line telling a story of endurance and love.

According to UN statistics, the age group of 80 and over is growing faster than any other segment of the older population. Currently, those aged 80 or above make up just over 1% of the global population. This proportion is projected to increase almost fourfold, reaching 4.1% by 2050.

Living Independently in Older Age

In the past, living alone in older age was often seen as a negative, equated with social isolation. Today, however, many older adults prefer to stay in their own homes, even if it means living alone. Greater longevity, age-friendly housing, and community care services have made this independence more feasible. Programs such as volunteer escort services, senior companions, and emergency alert systems enable elders to live alone safely. Walkers, electric chairs, and scooters are often covered by medical insurance, further supporting this independence.

According to a Eurostat report, in 2015, 49.5% of women and 27.8% of men aged 85 and over in Europe lived alone. Meanwhile, around 13% of this age group resided in old age homes. As one nursing home president remarked, “Twenty years ago, I’d see 40-year-olds bringing in their 60-year-old parents. Now I’m seeing 72-year-olds bringing in their 90-year-old parents.”

The Role of Wisdom and Dependency

The wisdom and experience of this age group are invaluable, and many elders have a strong desire to stay connected with family and friends. Sharing life lessons and stories is a way for them to maintain a sense of purpose and connection. However, with age, many in this Blob require daily assistance for personal care and activities. This dependency on family, friends, or caregivers is often essential.

An OECD review found that dementia affects fewer than 3% of those aged 65 to 69 but rises to almost 30% among those aged 85 to 89, making constant support inevitable for many. Despite the physical and cognitive challenges, the resilience, wisdom, and inner strength of this age group make them invaluable sources of insight for younger generations.

The Precious Gems of Humanity

As Zalman Schachter-Shalomi beautifully stated

Elders are the jewels of humanity that have been mined from the Earth, cut in the rough, then buffed and polished by the stone cutter’s art into precious gems that we recognize for their enduring value and beauty.

This metaphor captures the enduring wisdom and grace of elders, highlighting the immense value they bring to families and communities.

What lessons have you learned from the elders in your life? How do you stay connected with older family members?

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Click here for Blob 16: Timeless Elder

or read about any other Blob:
Spring: 1-6, 7-12, 13-18, 19-24
Summer: 25-30, 31-36, 37-42, 43-48
Autumn: 49-54, 55-60, 61-66, 67-72
Winter: 73-78, 79-84, 85-91, 91-…