Senior Living News

November is National Inspirational Role Models Month, and we know that many of the residents at Park Regency in Thornton are role models for others in their lives. As an older adult, that's an important role to take on, especially when you can model positive, Godly behavior for grandchildren and other younger people — and for those around you in the assisted living community.

After all, the Bible does encourage you to "let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

But it's also important to have your own role models, even as you age and gain experience and wisdom. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."

Reasons to Have Role Models as an Older Adult

The purpose of role models is to have someone who promotes a positive lifestyle or deals with certain issues in ways that are inspiring. It's not necessarily that people want to be exactly like their role models, but that individuals can look to those people for hope and even ideas for certain situations.

The benefits of role models for older adults can include:

• Seeing someone facing the aging process with energy, grace or even excitement for the new chapter in life. When we see other people living their best lives — even in the face of changes or challenges — it can inspire us to work to do the same.
• Being inspired to a healthier lifestyle. Role models who promote health and wellness and actively live a life that shows older adults can be active and happy provide encouragement for your own exercise, diet or health journey.
• Learning to live outside of the traditional expectations of society. Many role models for seniors don't let themselves be defined by their age or the expectations that society traditionally puts upon the aging process. Betty White, for example, often takes on roles and activities that explore the humor of the aging process as well as ways older women can break out of stereotypes.

Where Can You Find Role Models?

For older adults, role models may simply be someone who is inspiring. From people of the Bible, such as Abraham or Ruth, to modern sports stars, politicians, celebrities and authors, you may find personal stories that help you think about things in a new light or get encouragement for your day.

Role models can also be regular people in your life and leaders in your community — even people who have passed on. Some people find favorite role models in fiction books or movies, too.

The prerequisites for a personal role model are simply that you see a positive message in their life and it encourages you in some way. The great thing about finding your role models in each stage of life is that you aren't limited to what everyone else is doing, and you can choose people who emulate your own values and vision for the future.