How to Deal with Cranky Senior Citizens is Topic of
Online Discussion
Be aware that many things in society are not easy for
elderly citizens, says wikihow.com
By Tucker Sutherland,
editor & publisher
Sept.
8, 2008 – Just to get your blood pumping, we want to provide you a link
to a Website that is trying to educate their readers on “How to Deal
with a Cranky Senior Citizen.” They also have a discussion going on the
topic and we thought many of our readers may want to join in.
The first sentence on the Web page is almost
unintelligible and obviously written by some young person who lacks the
intelligence of most senior citizens. It says, “The following are tips
on how primarily deal with senior citizens who maybe experiencing some
grumpiness.”
But, the author on WikiHow.com does urge some
kindness for us older folks, “Remember to treat all people with love and
grace as they all warrant respect.”
“Keep reading,” says the author, “for other tips to
help you find the tolerance and patience when dealing with those from
other generations.”
Well, maybe some of us seniors may want to check
out the advice to better deal with a few in our own generation. What
follows are 26 specifics ways to deal with the cranky old person.
The first suggestion they offer to readers –
“Question why you perceive this person is cranky. Are you making an
assumption that because this person is older than you that they must be
‘cranky’ rather than having a legitimate concern or complaint?”
Believe me, young person, when most of us old folks
are cranky, you will know it. And, I don’t think most of us will stand
for you deciding if we have a legitimate complaint. My advice is to just
get out of the way.
A few of my other favorites:
● Remember that growing old can also bring about
depression in the elderly. Some may show their depression in the form of
anger, sadness, mood-swings, etc.
● Remember older women undergo hormonal changes
that may result in irritability and depression
● Look for the person inside who lives behind
that pain and draw him or her out. (Author’s Note: Now you are really
asking for trouble. When I’m cranky, the last thing you want to do is
“draw me out.”)
● Accept things for what they are, provided it
is safe to do so. Sometimes the situation cannot be resolved. (Author’s
Note: Now you get it.)
● Remember, we're all heading in the direction
of becoming elderly citizens, so think ahead. (Author’s Note: More good
advice.)
And, here is a gem:
● Be aware that many things in society are not
easy for elderly citizens who must contend with a fast pace of life,
rudeness or abruptness when seeking goods and services, forms that have
to be filled out in fine print, payment needed for a lot for things that
they often cannot afford, being made to contend with traffic, stairs and
other obstacles that are suited to younger, fitter people but do not
lend themselves easily to older persons with disabilities or slower
reaction times, etc.
And here is their bonus tip:
● If an elderly person is really aggressive,
treat them the same way that you would treat anyone who is aggressive;
keep your distance, be polite and call for assistance. Seek
psychological help if needed where the elderly person is someone in your
care.
And, under “Warnings” the writer concludes:
● Geriatric depression is very common and can be
a cause of irritability.
The first response on the discussion pages is from
Sondra C. and says, “…this is extremely mean spirited and sarcastic, and
shows no respect for Seniors. It also is not accurate.”
Sept.
8, 2008 – Just to get your blood pumping, we want to provide you a link
to a Website that is trying to educate their readers on “How to Deal
with a Cranky Senior Citizen.” They also have a discussion going on the
topic and we thought many of our readers may want to join in.