FINDING WRITTEN BY MEG SINNOTT, FRIENDS CLUB COORDINATOR Continental Co
Friends Club members may be feeling particularly isolated without in-person events and the adventure of travel. Despite being unable to explore a different culture or converse with a new person first-hand, a shared connection and sense of togetherness can be established by examining commonalities from afar, like how major continents view health and well-being, feeling purposeful, and maintaining relationships. Though the examples in this article resonate with “normal” life, hopefully a sense of connection to those more than six feet—maybe even oceans—apart develops, even if only for this moment. Maintaining Good Health Perhaps most unanimous globally, many cultures believe the secret to a long, healthy life resides in access to healthcare, engaging in physical activity, and combating stress. Beginning with Asia, a nation dedicated to preserving lifelong wisdom and showing respect, healthcare measures improved so extensively in cities like Seoul, Bangkok, and Singapore, that travelers not only visit for general tourism but medical tourism as well (Seniors in Asia, 2012). Activity, whether of the social or physical variety, functions as its own form of healthcare for adults age 65 and older in Europe and Australia. In Europe, pursuing education, hobbies, volunteer opportunities, traveling, and being physically active brings utmost enjoyment to life (Ageing Europe, 2019). Australians seemingly agree with Europeans, as 86% participate in either volunteering, a social or community activity, or traveling to see family and friends (Older Australia, 2018). Striving for, and the methods to attain, good health universally bonds people across borders, even if only to agree on the difficulties of doing so. Feeling Purposeful Age and employment offers another connection point between the United States and continents like Europe and Africa, especially for working adults 65 and older. In Europe, about half of adults aged 65 and more are employed in a part-time capacity, and nearly 94% report higher levels of satisfaction at work than those in younger generations (Ageing Europe, 2019). In Sub-Saharan Africa, most adults age 60-64 remain in the workforce in some capacity due to financial responsibility (Trends in Africa, 2020). Many will work away from home, or for women specifically, provide in-home labor to support large families (Trends in Africa, 2020). Whether working full-time, part-time, or taking care of a family member, working adults 65 and older offer value, experience, and some of the best attitudes!
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