Chapter 1: The Charm of Vibrant Elders

In the journey of life, you too can embody the spirit of an Exuberant Geezer (EG). Begin this path today, and you’ll not only evolve into a radical elder but also enhance your life along the way.

Zelda was the first person I would later define as an exuberant geezer, although I hadn't coined the term yet. Our encounter began as I left a tennis court in Miami. Her opening remark was disarming.

“You’ve got a lovely stroke, dear.” How could I resist engaging with her?

“Thank you! It’s my first game in over twenty years,” I replied.

“Well, keep at it, honey. I've been playing for over seventy years,” she said.

Her petite frame, dressed entirely in white and wielding a large racket, caught my attention. With bright blue eyes and a beaming smile, she radiated joy and warmth. Her affectionate use of terms like “dear” and “honey” felt genuine and loving, unlike what one might expect from a stranger.

“Seventy years? You must have started as a child,” I remarked, intrigued by this remarkable woman. Despite her raspy voice and deeply lined face, there was nothing old about her spirit.

“No, I took up the game at 21,” she responded.

At the time, I was in my early sixties while Zelda was in her early nineties. She walked three miles every morning and played tennis until she was 99. When friends from New York visited, I often hosted dinners in her honor.

Fifteen years prior, I had met another remarkable woman, Henrietta, who was 31 years my senior. At that time, I hadn’t consciously sought out the inspiring older women I would eventually call “my old ladies.” However, I instinctively recognized that Zelda was someone worth observing and learning from.

Chapter 2: Why Seek Out Inspiring Elders?

Zelda lived by the motto of live, laugh, and love. A delightful performer reminiscent of the Borscht Belt, she captivated us with cheeky jokes and entertained at senior centers, not bothered by the effects of aging on her appearance. She openly embraced her age.

I never anticipated that one day I would spontaneously utter the phrase "exuberant geezerhood," but I know that Zelda, who passed away in 2011 just shy of her 105th birthday, would have cherished it.

I now have a wonderful group of older friends, each enriching my later years. While I cannot replicate their lives, their experiences inspire me and help shield me from the pervasive negativity of ageism.

As I’ve grown older myself, I’ve found that my definition of “old ladies” has evolved. Initially, they were at least 20 to 25 years my senior, but as I approach 80, I’ve relaxed those parameters! Zelda once told me, “Honey, at a certain age, everyone you know is gone, and you need to find new friends!”

One of my newer inspirations is Patricia Ross, whom I met on Medium. From her writing and stories, it was clear she was an elder I wanted to connect with. Though only six years my senior, Patricia has led a rich and challenging life. Our conversations via Zoom have been enlightening, and I admire her ideas and insights.

When our podcast team decided to feature Patricia, a talented concert pianist and photographer who studied with Ansel Adams, I eagerly volunteered to host. It was during this conversation that I first coined the term exuberant geezer.

Chapter 3: The Hallmarks of Exuberant Geezerhood

Listening to Patricia’s story reveals several qualities that embody the essence of an exuberant geezer. You, too, can embrace these traits—or perhaps you already do!

1. Competence

   Patricia, a mother and grandmother, lives independently. When faced with mold in her apartment, instead of succumbing to despair, she drew on her strength and resourcefulness to navigate the challenge.

2. Curiosity

   While curiosity might get cats into trouble, it keeps us humans vibrant. Patricia emphasizes the joy of staying open to new experiences and learning, as she explores the fascinating science of chladni plates that visualize sound.

3. Flexibility

   Despite her arthritis, Patricia continues to play the piano for enjoyment, adapting her approach rather than giving up due to limitations.

4. Resilience

   Resilient individuals know how to cope with life’s hurdles. Patricia faced her husband's decline and eventual passing with grace, using her skills to chart a new course forward.

5. Self-Awareness

   With a background in psychology, Patricia’s introspection allows her to understand her past and how it shapes her present, especially in her role as a therapist.

6. Sociability

   Connection is vital, particularly as we age. Zelda was a master conversationalist, effortlessly engaging others with her warmth and interest.

7. Spunk

   This term encapsulates the courage and spirit of exuberant geezers. They pursue life on their own terms, defying societal expectations regarding age. Patricia’s writing showcases her fearless and authentic perspective on life.

In essence, exuberant geezers embrace joy, prioritize self-care, and approach each day with a sense of purpose. They seldom complain and instead, keep their lives filled with activity and laughter!

Listen to Patricia’s interview to understand why she inspired this term. If you know any exuberant geezers—or if you identify as one—feel free to share additional qualities in the comments.