ADA ,Knee Replacement
and The New York Times
I just came across an article in the November 2, 2014 of The
New York Times that talked about the new buildings and its effects on older
people. This geriatric professor pointed out that the new buildings were
gorgeous. However, he claimed that some of these buildings had side entrances
for the older adult programs because they didn’t want to scare off younger
people. He went on to say that the hallway were too long; chairs without
armrests; poor lighting; narrow heavy doors; and lack of regularly spaced
chairs. He thought that even though these buildings are ADA compliant, they
still don’t meet the standards for adults who are older that have physical,
sensory or cognitive challenges and might be frail as well.
Statistically over 40 million Americans are 65 or older and
11 million-the fastest-growing segment of the older population are over age 80.
The Professor believes that new buildings should be designed to accommodate
this population.
My thinking is that I want to be as healthy as I can and not
worry about heavy doors, seating without armrests, etc. My wife Linda had knee
surgery replacement on October 13, 2014. Her second knee replacement surgery is
scheduled for December 12, 2014.
Linda, on her own, called a number of facilities to check
out their swimming pool criteria so that she can rehab herself and be ready and
strong for that second surgery. No one had to tell her this. Nor did anyone
have to write a prescription. Because she is self-motivated, she is taking
control over her physical health. Did this trait just start? No, of course not.
She has been a self-motivator and physically active individual her entire life.
So she takes responsibility for her health like water rolling off a duck’s
back. In fact, at this moment in time, she is at the pool. Good for her.
I believe we have to start young and change the thinking and
behavior of many, so that when they reach maturity they are physically and
cognitively strong to meet the challenges of their individual evolution. So if
you want my advice, sir, keep moving, smiling, laughing, bonding and
appreciating.
PS
Oh by the way,
today, Tony and I plan to run about 22 ± miles the trail.
“If you don’t know the trail, you don’t know where you’re going.”
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