Hi everyone
I thought I might give you some of my reflections on turning 80. This is due, partly, to the actual event of my 80th birthday, and also because I’ve just read one of my gifts, a book by Prue Leith, the renowned chef, restaurateur, entrepreneur and judge of Bake Off here in the UK and, I believe, in the States. So, a lot of you who read this blog will probably have heard of her. This is her latest book, Being Old and learning to love it.
Within the book are many chapters that look as though they will be really useful. These are: On Ageing, Health, Exercise, Beauty, Gardening, Travel, Writing, Money, Friendship, Senility, Regrets, and on so on, ending with the Joys of Old Age. I am not, however, going to pass on anything she has written in these chapters as, in actuality, this is a book about Prue’s own joys and thoughts on her own ageing. Nothing wrong with that and it is a rattling good read, as long as you realise that nothing she says quite applies to one’s own situation.
I expect you all know, as I do, that we all age in our own ways. Ageing is on a spectrum, with outliers at one end, of people who are old before they reach 50, and on the other end, people like Sir David Attenborough who is still hale and hearty with an alert, sharp and perceptive mind at 100 and Prue Leith in her late 80s going great guns with her amazing sense of colour and her glasses and jewellery brand. In between there are the rest of us in the middle or thereabouts getting on with life as best as we can what with our bodies slowly wearing out and needing attention.
But back to birthdays. Blimey, O’Reilly or any other words you’d like to say. 80! Whaaat!
But here’s the thing. I do feel that this birthday is different, not for what you might expect, that big fat 0 at the end of the figure 8. No, this time I am actually enjoying my birthday. It’s been great, and instead of feeling rather down in the dumps about being 80 I feel woo-hoo, I’m 80, so onwards and upwards to the next decade.
This is quite a change from how I felt on my 75 birthday and all the birthdays thereafter (until now). On each of those birthdays I got a supercharged feeling of dread. So, why was that?
I think it was because when I reached 75, this was the first time I realised I was not getting any younger. Well, of course, what do you expect, you might say. But for me, my 60s were totally fine (apart from a dodgy gut due to a big blip with antibiotics – more about that later) so I entered my 70s still thinking I was in my 60s and nothing much was going to change as, after all, I was going to have exactly the same life as before. I mean, why ever not? I was ageing well and was going to continue to age well.
But, I might have told you that all my relatives on my father’s side died at 80 – yes, I think, every one of them. On my mother’s side they got slightly beyond 80. So, when I reached 75 that meant I’d truly left my 60s, and thereafter I would have to look forward to being 80 – yikes, nooooo! Apologies to those of you over 80 at that point, but that was how I felt.
Then the years passed and the body changed. And as you know, 2025 was when it became clear that I had three health issues to deal with: the balance issue, the hip impingement, and the trapped nerve. Yup, 2025 was not my favourite year. But this year? This year I feel different because more than anything I am reconciled to my body ageing. OK, I say to myself, it’s not working but what can be done? I am, therefore, not languishing in a haze of muttering frustration as I was last year, instead I am eager to get the three issues sorted.
Indeed, two of these three issues could be sorted by the end of the year. Earlier this week I went for my 4-hour pre-op appointment for a hip replacement. I had many questions and one question in particular about antibiotics, as I am allergic to erythromycin and intolerant to all penicillins, which began with a major gut upset after being prescribed erythromycin. My gut doesn’t like any antibiotic now, and, consequently, I haven’t completed a course of antibiotics for over 20 years.
Well, apparently, they have options, so I was not to worry about that. However, I was given an enormous amount of paperwork, which I’ve read but will need to read again and digest. I rather feel I could re-write the whole lot in one workable booklet and will do that anyway so I can see what I have to do in a more readable form. Otherwise, I think it was impressed upon me how long it takes to recover – which was sobering. Actually, I would love to hear from those of you who have been through a hip replacement. Do you have any advice or words of encouragement? For that I would be very grateful.
As for my trapped nerve. I see someone to discuss the results of my 2nd Lumbar MRI scan shortly. Things are moving albeit slowly.
So there we are. Two of the three issues could be solved soon – that warrants three cheers!
Meanwhile my trusty rollator has liberated me from dependency and I absolutely love it. When the two issues have gone – I’m being positive here – that is when I will turn my attention to the balance issue and see what can be done.
All in all, so far this year is a good one, and I don’t find being 80 horrid, as I’d expected. Instead, dear readers, I’m thinking about holidays for 2028!
To sum up, I’d say I don’t exactly love being old. We can’t all be a supercharged Prue Leith. There are many drawbacks to ageing. Moreover, I don’t have any advice to pass on – we all age differently, we are all on different parts of that spectrum of ageing, and we all need different solutions. But it ain’t so bad, and I look forward to more adventures, more blogs, more holidays, more meet-ups with friends and family. And I guess there will be a few hospital appointments along the way too, that’s inevitable.
However, I see now that dreading the coming years is not for me. Instead, I realise there is much to enjoy through the next decade – and I believe that, which makes a big difference. But do tell if you’ve found the definitive answer to ageing. I learn so much from your comments and answers.
That’s all for now. But I thought I’d leave you with a sight of one of my new summer dresses. In the next week we have another heatwave so out will come my new summer dresses.
Here is one dress I bought last week from a charity shop. Its label is Seasalt so the price of £20 tells you it’s quite a bargain.
Finally, if anyone has had a hip replacement do tell me both the worst and the best things that happened when you had your hip replaced. Hearing how you managed will help both me, and anyone else who faces the same operation.
That really is all for now
With love PennyX
Happy Birthday and good luck with your medical issues.
Many thanks Gill, your good wishes are much appreciated 🙂
Good to hear the end is in sight for the 3 health issues. Greatly admire your perseverance and determination in finding solutions. Greatly liking the Seasalt dress, yellow, one of my favourites. I don’t think I’ll read Prue’s book. I find her admirable as a businesswoman, and for her joie de vivre, but somehow I don’t particularly like her.
With regard to Prue Leith’s book I didn’t expect much in the way of research based evidence on how to age. But gosh there’s a lot in the book about her life. Of course she’s had ups and downs, but she isn’t an average woman in her late 80s. She is admirable, but very full of confidence – which she admits. As I said, we can’t all be a supercharged Prue.
Yes, I love that dress and am wearing it now – it’s going to be a hot few days here. Possibly as hot as Greece!
Thanks Gail 🙂
As always, love your honesty in your writings. And I love that you’re optimistic! Thank you for continuing your blog, and showing the way to adjusting to old age. The yellow gingham dress is lovely-you still don’t dress like an 80 year old! Keep on keeping on, and being a role model for those of us just a bit younger 🙂
It’s interesting you say I don’t dress like an 80 yr-old. The thing to do as one ages is to dress as one pleases. And not listen to anyone who puts an age ceiling on clothes. There used to be many articles on what to wear in one’s 50s, 60s and 70s. And if women in their 80s were ever mentioned it would be to wear floral and comfortable clothes – eek! I love both colourful clothes and indeed, have returned to loving black items of clothing especially when they are paired with white. It is important to understand colours and not wear beige!!
Thank you so much for your comment Lorraine. I really appreciate your feedback 🙂
Hello Penny
An interesting post! I’m pleased to hear you’re feeling better, that things are moving on the treatment front, and you’re more positive about your age now. Of course, feeling positive about anything is bloody hard if you’re in constant pain – which you were for quite a while.
I agree, there’s something different about 80: two decades off 100 certainly helps focus! As you know, I also turned 80 recently, and something has changed in me, too. Still passionate about stuff, but a tad laid back. I still see my PT and go to the gym, love proper food: cooking it and eating in nice restaurants/hotels and having friends. And decent wine. I’m less keen to fly but want to go abroad (electric car or train). I’m reading and gardening more, am active locally and enjoying the usual cinema, galleries, exhibitions, shows and jazz/folk club.) And, enjoy clothes (particularly shoes) and make-up.
Thinking about it now, the biggest change is how I’m using my time. As I type this, it’s well past noon – and I’m in bed. But that’s not half the story. I got up just after 5am, made a cup of tea, went back to bed, and read the news (thank heaven Reform did not win in Makerfield!) I then got up, did a spot of ironing and made my regular fruit, yoghurt and museli breakfast, and then came back to bed for a snooze. I woke up about an hour ago, had coffee and a slice of my lemon polenta cake, and wrote several emails to friends – one arranging a visit to a gallery on Tuesday and a trip to visit a friend in hospital in London tomorrow, then I read your post, and now, here I am responding.
How fantastic is that? … a morning spent doing exactly what I want: no ‘shoulds or oughts’. A luxury not usually possible when we’re younger – raising families, working etc..
I’m getting up now, a little walk/inspection of the garden before two hours playing online bridge with two ladies – one aged 84 in Oxfordshire, the other aged 93 in Wales. We link up on WhatsApp and have a chat/laugh and play for a pleasant … how lovely is that?
I’m interested that you’re thinking/planning a holiday for 2028: always good to have things in the diary to look forward to. Where/what do you have in mind?
Next week we’re off to Dorset for a week of fresh fish, sea air and beautiful countryside. And, for a little treat a visit to my favourite little hat shop: https://snooksthehatters.co.uk/ (a fun in itself, regardless of purchase – or not).
Keep on trucking, All the best, Mary
Hi Mary and btw, I am always in constant pain – but – I’ve got used to it! Instead of going round in circles about things like I did in 2025, the ‘pathways’ I’m on give me hope that these issues might resolve. When those have gone I shall concentrate on my balance which is not possible these days as I limp everywhere@!@*!
And it was so funny when I saw my 5-yr-old grandson last week as he kept saying but you are nearly 100!! And then he’d count from 80 to 100 and say – ‘see it’s not long.’ So I said and what will you be like when I’m 100 and you are 25? That stopped him – for a while!
The 2028 holiday will be a Saga cruise which personally I am addicted to – you have such a fabulous time. So I am debating will it be Norway again or could we push the boat out and get to Iceland and the Faroes? I really fancy that one – but it will depend on the state of the savings. But bookings for 2028 will open in February 2027 so I need to decide beforehand. However I truly believe we should live life and do all the things we like doing right up to the end.
Love the description of your morning in bed and all the things you plan do. That’s the way to live. And the hat shop! We have a small but very expensive hat shop in Lewes and there’s a shop in Brighton rather like the one you go to in Dorset
Our next holiday is in September – to Dungeness of course!
Thanks so much Mary, I will keep on trucking – promise 🙂
Happy Birthday Penny 🎂 🍾 💐
Hip replacement —- not me but friends who have had assorted hips and knees replaced. Their overwhelming advice is do the post op exercises to the letter.
Bon chance!
You know the thing that most people are advising is do the post-op exercises. Thanks so much for that advice – I will absolutely do the exercises. 🙂
I am only a couple of years behind you, Penny, and am feeling very positive about aging. Could I recommend the wonderful Will Harlow, who is a physiotherapist who specialises in mobility and strength for the over 50s. He has many free exercise videos on YouTube, and has recently published a book, Independence for Life, which is full of exercises and inspiration. He does not regard anyone as beyond help, whatever their state of decrepitude and says that even 90 year olds should be able to stow bags in overhead lockers. I absolutely believe this is possible! Will has recently started Lifelong Mobility, an online resource with follow-along exercises which can be done at home. There is something for everyone, and he is especially mindful of balance and hip problems. I have been in it for three months now, and hopefully will be in it for life. Will is very English – he comes from Farnham just up the road from you, Penny, but following a book promotion tour of America the Americans are now joining in droves. It is clear to me that there has previously been no real provision for over-70s who want to work out consistently. I do something physical every day now, and love feeling stronger and fitter.
Thank you very much for this info, very helpful.
HI Christine – and I too follow Will Harlow on YouTube and I have his book. His exercises for a trapped nerve were a godsend last year when the pain I had from that was the key issue. Now I think that particular pain has dulled with the exercises and the medication, now it is hip pain and my Personal Trainer and I are working hard to increase the muscles around the hip so I can be ultra fit before the op.
But I agree Will Harlow is amazing and so dedicated to helping older people with their issues. I really like him and although I said I don’t have any advice I think I might do a blog soon about what one can do to mitigate pain and all the things one can do to remain independent and fitter as we age.
Thank you so much for reminding me about Will Harlow and already you can see that someone found your advice valuable. Really appreciate your comment 🙂
Hello Penny
Regarding hip replacement, I found it to be the easiest of the knee, hip, shoulder surgeries. The thing about knees is push, push, push to get the results and for the hip it is take it easy, but still do the exercises.
It takes time but once you adhere to the ‘ no bending past 90 degrees’ it makes sense. Lots of pillows for support, your wheelie, and rules for stairs and it is manageable . Don’t rush it and pamper yourself. My outcome is really great, better than the other 2.
Wishing you a fabulous new decade ahead
Thanks so much for this advice and yes, I had an idea that the knee op is more tricky to deal with post-op. And interestingly most people who have knowledge of their own hip ops have said the same thing – do the exercises – so I will!
Btw, you have been through the mill – a shoulder replacement. Wow. That must have been very tricky to deal with.
Thanks again for the advice and information – it really has helped. And I hope it helps others too 🙂
Hi Penny,
Wonderful blog – I am always looking for a good read, and I will look at Prue’s book.
I have a friend who will be having hip replacement surgery next week. For years, she had challenges with walking and doing simple household chores. She thought it was her lower back – went through anything from injections to physio to acupuncture to massage therapy. A recent MRI showed issues with one of her hips, and she is having the surgery next Friday – she waited about 6 months to get a surgery date, and this is in Canada.
My thoughts are with you – I hope you get the answer/s you need and deserve.
Thank you so much for this. Interesting about your friend’s situation which might be the same for me, what with the pain being in the lumbar area at first and a possible trapped nerve. But maybe it is the hip after all. I see someone about the results of my recent Lumbar MRI scan and it will be interesting to hear what are the next steps.
Thanks again Cindy 🙂
Hi Penny, pleased to hear you have had your pre-op appointment, and will get your hip replacement surgery in the coming months.
I have had two hip replacements, the first when I was 59, we were circumnavigating on our 36 ft yacht and were in the Pacific. We got to Tonga and I had real difficulty walking, so my husband cut me a walking stick from a tree, a great help and I still have it. I saw a doctor there who injected me with steroids which were no help so we sailed on to New Zealand.
We then decided to fly back to the UK so we could see our family and I could have a hip replacement. I had the op privately because of time constraints and it was so good to be out of pain. I recovered quickly and we flew back to New Zealand and carried on sailing.
In 2023 I was in a lot of pain in my left hip and being told the long wait for a NHS op I decided to go to Nordorthopaedic Clinic in Kaunas Lithuania having been recommended the clinic by a friend. That all went well, we stayed in an apartment for ten days and following the op I had physio every day at the clinic.
However at the age of 77 it took me longer to recover and I found exercises recommended by Arthritis UK, before and after hip replacement helpful and also Will Harlow on Utube.
Now at 80 I’m waiting for a knee replacement, hopefully on the NHS this time and within six months, so now it’s knee exercises most days or exercise bike.
I think the most important advice is do as you are advised, take the pain medication and do the exercises.
Sending my best wishes
Wow, Margaret, what a story of how and where you had the two hip ops – fascinating to read. What an intrepid traveller you have been – and still are I trust.
Good to hear all went well with the two hip ops, and the very best of luck with the knee op. I certainly realise now from all the comments that doing the post op exercises are incredibly helpful and absolutely the thing to do to the letter.
Very best wishes to you too 🙂
I’m not far behind you at 78 & 1/2 now & I do like your attitude . We emancipated sixties girls were never going to be doddery old ladies , then whoosh…… But haven’t we been a lucky generation , not least because we reaped the benefits of the NHS – not perfect but still here for us . I expect I will need more of their attention before long . It’s no use denying aging or even fighting it to distraction . I think it’s about accepting some of its limitations without giving up & slipping into self pity . Listen to your body , count your blessings , stay fascinated by life & be sure to keep your sense of humour . Like you do Penny .
I do think there is a difference between us baby boomers born after the war and those born before or during the war, although I hasten to add, I know that is huge generalisation and I can see from people commenting on this blog that many of the readers of this blog over the age of 80 are completely on the ball. But I know what you mean and I do think we know how to fight for our rights. We are not going to be treated as over 75 so what do you expect? (As you know I did get that lecture from one GP.)
And I absolutely agree that it is important to not fight one’s age or dread it. Instead live life to the full as far as one can.
Thank you so much Wendy 🙂
Hello, I had my hips replaced in 2019 and 2020 (just before lockdown). I was 72 then. Found the recovery much easier than knee replacement. Do all the exercises recommended by your Dr. After full recovery, I was so happy to not be in pain anymore!
Oh my, I will be absolutely astonished not to be in pain which I’ve had now for well over a year! So I am mostly looking forward to it, but have a bit of apprehension about my sensitivity to antibiotics. Hopefully I will not need them and I’ve been told that they have other options for the actual op.
And indeed I realise that knees are more tricky as I’ve 3 friends who have both hip and knee replacements and the knee was far more challenging to get over with.
Thanks so much for your contribution to this as everyone with experience of a hip op is saying – do the exercises – and I will! 🙂
Happy birthday, Penny.
I’m 81, nearly 82. I’m blessed with very good health so the only difficulty I find is that my brain still thinks I have the physical ability to do whatever I want. I can, of course, but I have to build in limitations of strength and time.
Next week in our little Mediterranean seaside town we’re coming to the end of a two week celebration of San Juan. We’ll be jumping over the street bonfires, well, the edge of them, wearing flower garlands and partying with our friends and family.
The only thing I can’t cope with are the “concerts” of appallingly loud trendy “music” until 3/4/5/6 in the morning. I go to sleep at our daughter’s house!
Just bear in mind Bette Davis’ comment, “Old age is not for sissies.” It certainly isn’t, is it.
Hi, and how lovely that celebration of San Juan sounds. It must be so great for the community to get together like that. And yes, don’t we always think we are 10 years younger than we really are!
I’m absolutehlywith you there – old age is big challenge and not for sissies. That is why I find reading about ‘ageing well’, so irksome. These articles and books never look at actual ageing – which I find infuriating!
Thanks so much for your comment Jennifer 🙂
Forgot to say – fab frock. Old brain strikes again!
Thanks, the dress was a great find. A bargain and in my favourite colour too!
Hello, Penny
My Auld Fella (89) recently had a new hip followed by a replacement knee. His advice? The same as others’ really: a hip ‘hop’ is easier to bear than a new knee, but having either, doing the exercises religiously, despite the pain, is absolutely key. Our neighbour gave up on his exercises and was told in no uncertain terms that if he didn’t do them it would be a wasted, expensive operation from which someone else could have benefitted. He did as he was told, took time to catch up and is now mobile, so the exercises are vital to a good recovery. It could be up to three months before feeling much benefit from the op and another three before feeling truly back to normal. But it will be worth it and remember, your recovery time could be quicker than that.
Incidentally, has anyone mentioned the tummy jabs you’ll need to self-administer? They need doing at the same time every day with the used needle going into a sharps container that’s provided. It might be worth while checking what they comprise as you have allergies. According to my husband, it’s quick and easy to do and doesn’t really hurt.
It’s so good to read how positive you’re feeling! And it shows! You’re looking good in yourself and good in your Seasalt dress. Things is definitely looking up for you, things is!
I expect you’ll be penning something soon on your other blog about the current, ongoing dire straits of Goverment and the country. The latest most cynical, immoral, indefensible political ploy to strike us so far this year being played out yesterday will surely be on your agenda. Ooh, Penny, despite being on the other side of the political fence, I am really looking forward to reading your take on things and how you see it panning out. Get writing!
You take care,
Zepherine x
Hi Zepherine, and thanks so much for your comment which is always a treat to read. And I now know from all of you that doing the post-op exercises is key to recovery. Currently I am working with my Personal Trainer to get as fit as possible and especially working to boost the muscles around the hip. I’ve also observed (from friends) that knee replacements are far trickier than hip replacements, so I am thankful that my knees are OK for now.
It’s interesting to hear that your other half had self-administered injections. I believed in this area we are given blood thinning tablets to take for a couple of weeks or so after the op.
I am far more positive about life and the universe than I was a year ago. Yup onwards and upwards into my 80s and it’s OK!
Oh my word – there may be a little gap with this blog while I attend to events in the political arena. Ho hum. I have a few views myself on the confusion in and around No.10 but will aim to be analytical as possible. At this very moment I write we await news of……….
Indeed! More on My Other Blog either later this week or early next week!
Thanks so much Zephereine for your contribution 🙂
Hello Penny, I wish you luck with your hip replacement and encourage you to do it. I had one done some years back. I had sudden bad pain before and so I moved to surgery fast, just as well I didn’t think too much beforehand! They do it either anterior or posterior – mine was posterior done as out-patient. Was amazing to walk out and go to physical therapy the very next day. There are limitations for a time but as they say, motion is lotion and you have to keep moving. I remember a friend regretting she hadn’t done much exercise beforehand. It’s helpful to be able to lift yourself from a seated position using the arms of a chair, so try to work on that. Any surgery is a time-out from your normal life but otherwise where would we be! I know I’ll have the other one done someday but luckily no imminent need. Best of luck and let us know if you need any other advice!
Wow, that is amazing to have the hip op done as an out-patient as it’s usually a 2 night stay. Mind you I can see that happening one day to all of us. And I am totally with you about the fact that motion is lotion. Currently I am working with my PT to get me as fit and as strong as possible before the op. We also focus on strengthening the muscles around the hip. I can already use my arms to lift myself and also get out of a chair but I am constantly encouraged by my PT to get out of a chair without using the arms!
Yes, I’ve heard different timelines for complete recovery and I do also realise it will be a time-out from normal life. Hopefully it won’t be a year before I completely recover as one person told me at the pre-op appointment. That was a bit of a downer. But I think they give you the worse case scenarios.
Thanks anyway for your advice which is so very useful 🙂
Happy 80th Birthday, fabulous dress, really suits you!
Thank you so much Sue and yes that dress. It was good find 🙂
Thank you for your positivity and example to us all, no matter our age. Good to read that you haven’t denied 80 but embraced it. As you say we all have a different experience of ageing and your persistence in advocating for your own health appears to be paying off. Bravo!
I do embrace my 80s and do embrace the coming years – which is a change for me. Yes overall I am positive about these years. But my goodness, it pays to be assertive and continually ask for help/advice/treatment and so on.
Thank you for that bravo – it is much appreciated 🙂
My friend Susie, a runner, had a hip replacement I think about 2 years ago at 70 something. She is a runner and they told her she wouldn’t be able to run again but yet, she is. I think she went to 2 doctors before choosing the one and there was a choice of going in from the front or back (i think the recovery was different). She is the one i mention in my honey harvesting posts. I can probably give your her email if you have questions about the hip replacement she had and recovery. The main thing I remembered was to get moving as soon as possible and that yes there was pain at the beginning .
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Thanks so much Mireille, I now know that doing the post-op exercises is crucial to recovery. It has been so helpful to hear how others have come through the op with no real problems and are now pain free. I realise it will take time and I know I must accept that.
Thanks again Mireille – very best wishes to you 🙂
As I get older and find there are more limitations on my life I have to remember that I am now 85 and there is still so much I can do. This morning I went for my regular eye check up for my glaucoma. All was well, pressures in my eyes were good and my field vision test had actually improved since last time. As I went to sit in the examination chair the technician realized I was 85 and was surprised on how well I moved, and that I had come unaccompanied. “Keep on doing whatever you are doing” was his advice. Of course this made me happy since I do sense that my stamina has really diminished in recent years. I try do do yoga regularly, either on my own or in classes at the local library. I had been going to a yoga studio but right now I am trying to reduce expenses ( this is a whole different discussion) and the library offers them for free. And I do try to get out and walk several times a week. I do like to read and can spend too many hours being sedentary. I cannot speak from experience as I have not had any knee or hip replacement as of yet but friends do say the knee is much worse than the hip. As I am not willing to drive as far now, and more so limit myself at night some of the pleasures of summer have gone. I used to love going to Caramoor music festival about an hour away but unless I can convince on of my kids to take me I probably won’t get there again. Perhaps I will make it a birthday request next year. I try to take pleasure in the small and wonderful things around me, usually nature. Things I was to busy to notice in my working life. The family of rabbits who like the clover in back pf my patio, that I can make pesto from basil I have planted myself, the beauty of each particular season. There are still dinners with friends, but fewer now, the lecture series I often write about, local theater, especially if my daughter or her husband is part of it. And that is a great dress, the other day when I was out shopping at the supermarket there was a woman wearing a simple summer dress, even though she had a cane she looked so put together, a bit elegant without looking like she was trying. For some reason lately I seem drawn to books which are about people in older age trying to come to terms with the lives they have lived. I suppose I am doing bit of that myself. Your blog is something I look forward to and get inspiration, from your readers responses as well.
Love, Darby
Hello Darby and thank you so much for your comment which I always read with pleasure. I think it inevitable that our stamina reduces somewhat as we enter our 80s but you sound as though you are still supple and have enough energy to get about on your own, which is great. Yes, motion is lotion as one of the commenters here has said. We, older types, do need to keep moving and I have to remind myself to move more often especially when I have an office/writing morning. I aim to get up every hour and do something, it doesn’t matter what. It’s just moving.
I also agree that it is so important to keep up with many different cultural activities as possible – these enrich us while our body slows down. And you have a rich cultural life which I love hearing about. Also dressing with style always makes me feel good and that is why I encourage others to just wear outfits that please both you and others. It is important not to fade away as we age! At times it is great to be bold with clothes and go that extra mile.
Thanks so much Darby I always truly appreciate your comments 🙂
Happy birthday, Penny, and here’s to many, many more! I shall look for Prue Leith’s book because anyone who can put up with Paul Hollywood has to have something to say! I’m so glad you’re getting your health issues sorted. I’m not going to give you any advice on hip replacements as you know Mike’s experience has been horrendous. OK, I’m going to say one thing…mind the not bending over 90 degrees and do the exercises. Oh, that’s two! I am sure you will come through them with flying colors. Will you be staying overnight? I highly recommend that if possible. It’s just easier on your significant other! Please keep us updated. I love that dress, too! It’s a proper birthday dress!
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
Prue Leith’s book is a good read, as long as you realise it is all about her! Actually if you don’t know much about her she’s had her ups and downs, but also done many interesting things including running a successful restaurant and catering school. So yes, it is a good read.
Oh my word, I do hope Mike gets to a better place soon. However, I now know that the post-op exercises are key to recovery and I will do them to the letter. In the UK you stay for 2 nights! But I bet, as the years pass the op will be done as an out-patient – which amazes me having trained as a nurse. Mind you that was in the last century so of course things have changed 😆
Yes, and that dress was a good buy. It’s very hot here at the moment and with no air con the whole of Southern England is sweltering. But thank goodness I have a few dresses for hot weather!
Thanks Marsha 🙂
This post brought me to tears. Happy tears because THIS is the Penny I know(ish) and love. I am so glad to hear the energy and enthusiasm for life returning to your voice. I remember – or think I remember – that you had a love-hate relationship with your walker/rollator in the beginning. So so so glad you are embracing it for allowing you to move freely and give you more stability in the process.
Happy to read that 2 of your 3 pesky health issues may soon be behind you. Wonderful!! I am interested to find out what can be used in place of the antibiotics you are allergic to. I am allergic to penicillin, too. And when I had Lyme Disease and need daily IV antibiotics, the infectious disease specialist treating me had to scramble to figure out an alternative. I wound up taking Rocephin.
Love the dress!! Love seeing you in color. Another blogger I follow styled a very similar dress in more of a chocolate brown. I am tempted to order one for myself. You look fabulous.
Sending you a big hug. Welcome back!! So glad to read this post and to see YOU are back to your life-loving, adventure-seeking, strong, wonderful self.
Leslie at https://onceuponatimehappilyeverafteragain.blogspot.com/
Hi Leslie and many apologies for not replying sooner. Events and what with working on My Other Blog, your reply got lost. But here I am! And thank so much for all those kind words.
Yes, things are on the move and I am in the ‘system’ so to speak. Interesting to hear you too are allergic to penicillin. I’ve been told I will have alternatives.
The dress was a very good find, and I do love it. We are having another heatwave here in the UK, nothing like your heatwaves but we are so unused to it. Anyway I have bought a few more summer dresses, as wearing something that wafts around you helps enormously. But going outside on the hottest days is quite the ordeal as the heat is humid – like walking in hot soup! Anyway you will soon see some of the dresses I’ve got in another blog.
Thank you again for your lovely kind words which are so much appreciated 🙂
Well, I know someone who had 2 hip replacements. One went super smooth, and the other needed some more time to recover. But it took me by surprise that the heeling went so quickly and she was immediately lost from the pain.
I will become 60 this August and I’m not looking forward……….. it sounds so old and I hardly can believe I’m that age. Ha ha, oh oh, I sound so bad. Enjoy your weekend!
Hello Nancy – and it has been so good to hear all the advice which seems point to doing the exercises post-op. Good to hear about your friend too.
Oh my word, 60 is so young, really it is! But I know what you mean about age creeping up on you. Like thinking – 80! Surely not!!!
Thanks Nancy 🙂
Hello Penny , I was so pleased to read that you are feeling optimistic about your years ahead . It must be such a relief to finally have answers and a positive resolution in sight. John is having his hip replacement surgery on July 3rd. and has spoken to several friends all who have given him good advice . As many here have said hips are easier than knees and to do your exercises, I will keep you posted on his experience.
I had seen online about Prue Leith’s book and it does sound interesting , not sure it is released here yet , must check it out.
I do like your yellow dress , hope it isn’t too hot for you.
All the best .xxx
I do feel more optimistic, Jill and that’s partly because there is some movement towards resolving two of the issues. Very best wishes to John, btw. Yes, the advice given on this blog seems to be, do the post-op exercises to the letter – which I will do! And I agree having seen a couple of friends go through knee ops that these are trickier to recover from than hips.
Prue Leith’s book is a good read as long as you realise it is all about her life – which is interesting and she writes well too. I hadn’t realised she’s written a few novels too.
The yellow dress was great find, and quite a bargain. And actually it’s going to be record-breaking heatwave with temperatures nearing 40C – in June – eek. In the UK we are so unprepared for hot weather and our houses are built to bring the sun in and keep us warm. Not good in a heatwave!
Thanks Jill 🙂
Hi Jill,
I live in Canada, and I found a bookstore that carried Prue Leith’s book. I went, and I bought the last one.
I found the book an easy read from beginning to end – and it’s about her.
Please check it out when you can.
Hi Penny.
I am76 and I still work on an orthopaedic elective surgery ward, looking after patients of all ages who have had a joint replacement. The average stay now is 1-3 nights, as opposed to the 8-10 nights stay when I first started working on the ward.
I am sure that you will do just fine , just take notice of the physio and Occupational therapy teams , all will be well.
Xx
Oh wow, still working Angela – well done you! Of course, I have had some experience of hip ops as I did do the operating theatre at St. Thomas’ but as that was in the last century (1960s) I dare say much has changed! But I’m always amazed that people are discharged so early, and have experienced my husband being discharged far too early (after a piles op) and so many things went wrong, and going to A&E for nursing care (catheter) was nuts.
Having said, that I am not having the same op and it will be a different hospital. And I definitely realise from everyone’s comments that doing the post-op exercises is absolutely key to recovery. So I will do them to the letter.
Thank you so much for your encouraging comment which is greatly appreciated 🙂
I haven’t had a hip replaced but I have two new knees. My first advice get it done as soon as you can or your doctor advises. I had mine done in Nice, France. Each replacement was followed by 4 weeks in a convalescent facility and after I got home 20 physio sessions, two à week. I delayed getting it done for years which was stupid especially as waiting lists are short here. I hope all goes well you will feel like a new woman.
I am being rude but I really dislike the new name you have chosen for your blog. Reminds me of Conversations with a Vampire.
Oh wow, a convalescent facility. I remember those in the UK – but they’ve all disappeared and no longer exist. It’s out you go at the earliest possible moment. We don’t actually see a physio afterwards but you are expected to do the post-op exercises which is everyone’s advice. So I absolutely will do these to the letter.
You know the NHS is constantly being changed (for the worse I think) and I am sure these people, these politicians, always look to the US. But I have already heard how good the health service is in France as we have 2 friends who have lived in France permanently for many decades now. As they are all ageing and getting various ailments, I hear, for instance, how much physio people get after operations. If the NHS needs to be changed, and it is creaking, I really think we should go down the European route rather than anything that resembles the US health service route – which sounds totally dire.
I agree that the name of the blog might put people off, and I did try and get a funky new name – but every single name I thought up was already taken. And then I thought, but I do want to reclaim the notion of ‘old woman’ as a positive phrase. And I also want a conversation with people. So there we are.
Anyway, thank you Flora and enjoy Nice 🙂
Happy Birthday Penny, you look amazing and I love you in the Seasalt dress. Yes, you will certainly need the dress at the moment with all this hot weather.
Something I don’t know if Prue mentions in her book is that she still takes HRT so, of course, she has that extra buzz and drive! Most of us are mere mortals 🤣
You are a fine example of making the best of whatever life throws at us and I do hope your hip replacement goes ahead soon. I’m sure some of the other readers of your blog will be able to give you some good advice and helpful tips xx
HI Lynda and apologies for the delay in replying – just events and also working on My Other Blog.
I agree, Prue certainly buzzes with life! We can’t all be like her. But it was a good read, she writes well.
I’m hoping that the op will be in the next 6 months, but there is a tiny delay as my bloods show I’m a bit anaemic. Will be taking iron and I’m personally upping my protein intake.
People have been so very helpful and I see that doing the exercises are the key to recovery. Thanks Lynda and again apologies for not replying sooner 🙂
Good luck with your hip. It will be a transformation. I had my first one in 2020 and all went smoothly. Next one next month!To give you some idea: op was at lunchtime and offered a frame at supper time but straight onto 2 crutches which I found easier. A good night, no pain. Stairs the next morning and a walk with my consultant, then allowed home. I don’t recall much pain, incision was fine and stitches out after 10 days. I did not need to ice, but I know it’s suggeste. I used 2 crutches for 2 weeks then 1 for 2 weeks then none. Had some useful physio sessions and def did my exercises. I would recommend a hand picker upper, and a higher loo seat and Bridget Jones style pants as bikini ones touch scar! And perhaps an elastic waist skirt to wear post op to go home in. All the very best and will be interested to hear how you get on, do your own thing, we’re all different.
That’s so interesting Caro. I’ve already got a sock aid which is an amazing contraption which I am aleady using as putting on the sock on the right foot is increasingly difficult. I will get the long grabber and I thought I might also get a long shoe horn.
Your experience sounds so good. I think the pre-op assessment appointment is designed to give you worst case scenarios. In fact I was told I wouldn’t feel normal again for a whole year!!! Jeepers that was a downer. But I have an excellent PT so will be working on the post op exercises to the letter.
I guess with my rollator I won’t be offered crutches, as these would not help my balance issue. Anyway, I loved reading your comment as it all sounded so positive. Thank you for that Caro 🙂
Replying late as usual Penny – sorry!
I don’t have personal experience of a hip replacement (yet…) but my husband had one a few years ago. A work colleague of his, who’d had one at quite a young age, advised him not only to do the post-operative exercises but also to get as fit as he possibly could *before* the surgery. So he did a lot of swimming and anything else he could manage.
I don’t know if that had any effect or not, but he believes it did, and he certainly recovered very quickly. These days he’s back (& has been for some time) playing hockey, golf and squash; he also attends a lot of standing-only concerts, and has already done two long distance walking holidays this year.
I appreciate that he’s younger than you and also sport-mad (which I am most definitely not!) but I just thought I’d share this to encourage people.
By the way, he had the surgery privately on his company’s health insurance. He stayed in hospital 2 nights – their rule was that you could go home as soon as you could manage stairs (though I don’t think you have any?) and go to the loo by yourself (thank goodness!) When he left hospital they ‘gave’ (as in charged for…) him crutches, a device to pick things up, and a raised toilet seat. He had a couple of appointments at our local surgery to check the wound, and a follow up appointment at the hospital after a couple of weeks (and one or two more after that, I think.)
Your yellow dress is fabulous! I do enjoy wearing dresses, especially in hot weather – though I’m happy to say that up here in Aberdeenshire our daytime temperatures are hovering around 21C, which is quite enough for me. Someone I know has actually cancelled a cycling trip in the Pyrenees as she knew she wouldn’t be able to cope with the heat (despite being a highly experienced cyclist) – we’re just not used to it up here in NE Scotland.
One final thing – i borrowed the Prue Leith book from the library, read a bit and took it back. Although I admire her business acumen and work ethic, it bears no relation to my life whatsoever, and I do think most things, including aging, are very different when you have plentiful financial resources. I’ve been following a Facebook group called Retirement on a Budget, which I find much more interesting; full of great ideas.
Thanks so much Rosemary – I love reading your comments. And indeed, I am doing my best to get as fit as possible. I have a Personal Trainer and we are doing exercises to boost those muscles around the hip. Yes, it’s 2 days, although I bet it goes down to day surgery in the near future! Maybe not for everyone but some. I will be glad to be home. But for now I wait to hear when the op is – probably within the next 6 months which means the winter. That’s far better than having it now in this heat.
I have already got a shoe horn and sock aid (the latter is amazing) and will also get a grabber as I find being quite painful right now. Hoping that will ease after the op.
Re: the Prue Leith books – we can’t all be like her, can we. I read it (and she writes well) but might pass it on.
The yellow dress was such good find. Thanks again Rosemary – your comment is much appreciated 🙂