My father in law is a 92 year old WW II veteran and was my surrogate father when it mattered. To look at him you would never know. He has his hair and it is still mostly naturally brown. He has lost much of his belly, but his cheeks are full and he could be an ARRP poster boy.

However, as it must for all of us, his body and mind are failing him. Anyone of a certain age has experienced it with their parents as they seemingly reverse roles with their children.

At this juncture it has been highly recommended that we explore the nursing home option and we did so.

Did it smell?  Was it old and tired?  Was the staff putting in time?  Was it expensive ($370/day for a shared room)?  Would he only get a shower twice a week?  Would he sit in the Day Room with other warehoused elders staring in the distance or sleeping with their heads on the table?

It was a rude, brutal awakening. My only thought was DON'T GET OLD!