In engineering there is a concept called 'failing gracefully.' It doesn't really have a precise definition, but it refers to the idea of minimising the consequences of failure. If a building collapses, graceful failure would mean it didn't knock over other buildings, and would do so slowly enough for people to escape. If an engine quits, it doesn't immediately stop what is powering it, allowing a glide to resting position.
One common view of aging is that it is a process of surrender, giving up abilities and activities that we may have practiced all our lives as our bodies are no longer able to perform or recover from them. While I'm not that big a fan of surrender as a philosophy, I am well aware that sometimes giving up is what ya gotta do.
But how many of us prepare for giving up, so that we 'fail gracefully?' If my vision is deteriorating gradually but steadily, doesn't it make sense for me to find a place to live that doesn't require my driving? If I do it well in advance, then I don't have to move at the same time I'm getting used to poorer vision. Pretty much the same is true if I know I'm going to require major surgery.
Although I generally look at modern communications technology as a 'done deal' that we should all be using unconsciously, these tools can help us plan. The internet can tell us what the likely outcome of our current conditions will be, and help us plan a strategy in advance. The tools certainly exist for us to adapt to reduced function, ranging from larger screens to call buttons to intelligent wheelchairs.
The key requirement is to abandon denial as a frame of mind and think of graceful failure as a sign of superior intelligence. And since you're reading this, we already know you have that.
Comments