I Am Cataract Old

Growing up, I remember hearing about what I would call “old people diseases,” such as cataracts, liver spots, high cholesterol, arthritis, etc. Ailments that affected people of “a certain age.” Well, here I am at 60 about to have cataract surgery.

When I was in my 30s, my ophthalmologist told me that I had the beginnings of a cataract. He said, “We’ll keep an eye on it (no pun intended), but you have a good 30 years until it becomes a problem.” Well, that was a quick 30 years.

How Did I Get This Old So Soon?

I find myself asking this question over and over again. Physically, I definitely know I am 60, but mentally, I feel like I should still have another 25 years to go until my eyesight is compromised. I think this despite the obvious symptoms of vision deterioration.

So, I stand before you a 60-year-old woman who needs cataract surgery. I consider myself fortunate if this is my most serious ailment. I also stand before you as a person who still dances, runs, writes, is up to date on current events, and who can still argue for the things she believes in. All of these characteristics are merged into one body, albeit, a body that is slowing down, but one that still wants her life to make a difference.

Making a Difference

I think that is a goal everyone should have. You don’t need to be on a world stage to make a difference. Your impact can be felt by your family, friends, and people with whom you interact on a daily basis. It can be as small as holding the door open for someone, and as mundane as picking up an extra carton of milk for a neighbor.

Importantly, you should continue to make a difference in your own life regardless of age and condition. Learn a new language, start a fitness program, join a book club, etc. This upcoming cataract surgery is a catalyst for me to be aware that my body will continue to age and that there is no reverse button.

With that said, you are your energy, and I encourage you to spend it doing things that you enjoy and… yes, making a difference. Think to yourself, What can I do today that will make me a more fulfilled human and one that when I am out in the world, people will be happy to be in my presence?

Tall Order

Sounds like a tall order, but it really isn’t. Think about your skillset, your interests, what you stand for, and go out there and do you. Even if your health is compromised, it doesn’t mean that your life has to be, too.

I have a friend who is 68 years old and has been on dialysis since he was in his 30s. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday he goes to treatment for hours. He still manages to volunteer, helping people write their resumes; attend concerts and sporting events; and while he is no longer able to golf, he certainly participates from the sidelines. He feels poorly every day but refuses to let his kidney disease hold him back. This is a person who still has things he wants to accomplish.

I am in no way comparing my cataract surgery to what my friend deals with on a daily basis. I mention him simply to bring the point home that yes, we are aging and body parts are irreversibly deteriorating. The 30 years since my cataract was first diagnosed went by in a flash and time is always elapsing. Let’s take being “cataract old” as a time to become our best selves, living our best lives, and making a positive impact on our individual worlds.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Has there been a catalyst in your life that made you look at things differently? How are you making a difference in the world around you?