TUESDAY, MAY 4, 1999

Appreciate elderly now

I remember the day clearly. I received the grim news at 7 a.m. on March 22, 1998. I gripped the phone in shock, choking back tears. That was the day my grandmother passed away.

My grandmother and I always shared a very close relationship.

Perhaps, this is what has inspired me to be kind to all seniors and get involved in keeping them healthy and happy. Unfortunately, this is a topic that is often neglected.

The percentage of Americans more than 65 years old has risen from 5 percent in the early1900s to approximately 12.5 percent in 1990 and is projected to reach 22.9 percent by the year 2050 according to the U.S. Bureau of the Census.

That means that by the time CSULB students born during the 1970s reach old age, the number of old people will exceed 60 million.

We have much to learn from our elders. They can provide us with invaluable wisdom and experience.

In fact, they can be quite entertaining; Where else can you get first-hand knowledge about the days before television or a real life account of World War II?

Recently, I volunteered at a local senior center and I asked several seniors if there was anything in their life that caused anxiety.

I was surprised to find out there was very little stress in thier lives.

Several in the group said the key to happiness and well-being is staying active.

Could this be the key to happiness and well-being for all of us?

If being active keeps these seniors feeling young and happy, perhaps we should all give it a try.

For example, you can volunteer at a senior center.

Call up your grandparents just to tell them you love them. Offer to escort your elderly neighbor as she walks her dog down the block. The possibilities are endless.

The fact remains, that the more we connect with the senior population, the more we can understand ourselves.

The last time I saw my grandmother, I gave her a big hug and a kiss and told her I loved her. I still miss her and think about her often.

Her death has made me realize that our time on Earth is precious.

We must respect and cherish our senior citizens for the remainder of their existance.

Melanie J. Frost is a public relations journalism major.