Traditionally speaking….by Pat Larsen - TESTS

What does this simple five letter word conjure up for you when you see it? If you’re in the age category of those of us known affectionately as Baby Boomers or beyond, then you realize if this word is mentioned during a Doctor visit, you’re typically in for a further evaluation to determine the status of your health.

A wellness visit might require a simple blood test assessment or if there’s a  preceding medical issue then there might be a series of more extensive evaluations needed.

Regardless of what the issue is, the word itself makes me anxious until the results are in and I can deal with the resulting matter.

The older I get, the easier it is for me to conjure up the worst case scenarios, thanks to A-i and social media searches.

BUT, that is not the kind of TESTS that I’m referring to in this case. I’m raising the question of the constant barrage of issues that we are being bombarded with that might impact our independent living kind of “tests”...

So take a look at these real-life tests we might be facing and consider how they factor into your self sufficient life…either at this time in your life and at some point in the near future.

Medical & Physical

*vision tests  *hearing tests  * balance tests *grip and strength skills  *Fall- risk assessments.

Many or most of these considerations could impact driving especially at night, responding to a phone call, or missing an important question. Being able to stand on one foot and climbing or descending stairs efficiently.

These “tests” are often requested by medical professionals who make home visits and then require these actions be evaluated.

Cognitive tests

Memory screening like repeating three words in succession; 

Orientation questions like “what day is it?”

Medication recall (let me just tell you I fail this one every time) name every pill, what it’s for and when it’s taken…

(Like its an episode of jeopardy and our next answer will win us a million bucks)

Here’s the trickier ones…

Driving and vision renewals at the DMV…have you noticed how low the lighting is in these facilities? Makes me wonder if this is intentional. 

Reaction time to questions not always easily recalled due to the proximity they have in our day to day lives.

 I.e. When was the last time you cleaned out your refrigerator? 

Home and Safety assessments…loose rugs, stairs, grab bars.

Evaluations to prevent falls and assessment of hazard zones within your home.

Stove use…because cooking is now being considered a risk activity. Are we still cooking for ourselves? 

Shower audits-slippery tile assessments…

And finally, because I saved the most anxiety driven considerations for last…

FINANCIAL

How do we handle “bank fraud alerts” when they pop up on our computers?

Handling ONLINE bill paying-which is becoming increasingly required and might I add be incredibly confusing.

Duo-password requests that require two forms of ID?

Who is helping us with our finances, paying taxes, electric bills 

Etc.?

At this point you’re now well versed with the topic of TESTS and how they apply to our independent living style.

The truth is independence, after all, isn’t proven by standing on one foot. It’s measured by judgement, resilience,adaptability-and wisdom to know when to accept help without giving up control.

When we accept that aspect of the life we’ve been fortunate to have lived up to this point, 70’s, 80’s or beyond…we begin to embrace that strength comes in a quieter form. We are smarter and we tend to care less about proving ourselves and more about choosing how we want to live. We adapt much more readily without needing a light to shine on the limitations to understand a change has to take place. Living life on our own terms is the real measure of the resulting TESTS we face, sometimes quite unexpectedly and very quickly.

Our independence is something we’ve earned…no wrong answers, no missteps, just an ease into a simpler lifestyle that only we know will work for us in our own way.

So bring on the tests….

Pat Larsen, is a syndicated columnist who lives, works, plays and prays in Greene County, NY. Author of her first book…Reflections, anything but and ordinary life is being followed now by her second book release, Bridges…connections between then and now  on Amazon this Spring.

Please contact Pat at pelarsen528@gmail.com to say hello.