Aging Gracefully: Imagine the Possibilities

By Nicholle Gerharter, Reference Librarian

September 30, 2009

Would you like to know the secret to making the golden years golden? Research shows that proficiency in four areas of life translate into a thriving retirement:  mental fitness, social engagement, physical health and financial stability.  The Natrona County Public Library has an incredible array of resources to help you in each of these areas, as well as social and learning events designed just for seniors.

Despite what you may hear from Hollywood, “aging gracefully” is not an oxymoron.  In fact, at your library we use Hollywood’s own tactics to show the opposite.  A new film and discussion series will feature films that highlight the benefits, challenges and possibilities that accompany that accumulation of birthdays we call “aging.”

Across the country, as Baby Boomers enter their 60s and 70s, the rules about aging are changing.  The documentary “Young@Heart” chronicles a “fun-loving senior citizens’ choir” as they prepare for a rock-and-roll show to include music from James Brown, Coldplay, and other musical legends.  Several seniors are highlighted, including 92 year-old Eileen, who has amazing stories to tell of her life and her dedication to the choir.  “Young@Heart” will play Monday, October 5th at 6:30 p.m at the library.

Aging happens differently for each person.  We all know individuals with boundless energy and ambition as they reach their 70s and 80s.  We also know youngsters wise beyond their years.  In the award-winning film, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” the concept of aging is turned around, literally.  Benjamin is born under “unusual circumstances,” coming into the world as an 80 year-old man who ages backwards through his life.  What does it mean to be old?  To look old?  To act old?  “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” will play Monday, October 12th at 6:30 p.m.

Two of Hollywood’s greatest actresses star in the third film of the series.  Bette Davis and Lillian Gish play widowed sisters in their 80s whose lives are taking on new roles in “The Whales of August.”  Sarah is considering a new romance while Libby struggles with her independence and failing health.  Commanding performances drive this moving drama.  “The Whales of August” will play Monday, October 19th at 6:30 p.m.

The final film in the series, “Away From Her,” is the thoughtful, yet oftentimes painful journey of a long-married husband and wife thrust into a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.  As Fiona loses her memory and begins to fall in love with another man at her care facility, husband Grant is forced to reevaluate their changing relationship.  “Away From Her” will play Monday, October 26th at 6:30 p.m.

In addition to this film series, your library has many ways for seniors to enhance their golden years.  Each day we offer the opportunity to learn something new, escape to another world, engage in meaningful conversation with those in the community, and interact with technology.  For those who are unable to visit the library, we offer Books By Mail, a mail service of library materials to those who are homebound. 

Please call 577-READ ext. 2 for more information about these and other services for seniors and retirees at your library.

Back to Table of Contents