I have safely returned from my sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Grand Boule, in the capital and largest city in Indiana, Indianapolis. Indeed, it was a beautiful site to see the blue and white Sorors here, there, and everywhere. Every generation of age attended the Boule that took place from July 23 to July 28, 2024. The event showed the Finer Women of the sorority a week of fun, fellowship, celebration, networking, and learning about leadership.
As an eldercare advocate, I was most impressed with the Sorors in attendance from the baby boomers and the silent generation. Baby boomers were born between the end of World War II and the mid-1960s. The silent generation is generally defined as people born from 1928 to 1945. Many Sorors were inducted into the sorority while attending colleges and universities many moons ago. What was more impressive was the care and concern for the elders who were members of the sorority.
Provisions were in place for seniors using walkers, canes, wheelchairs, and scooters. The planning process to ensure the elderly Sorors were safe and able to move about the convention center warmed my heart. What this demonstrated was that aging does not have to define our seniors. Activities they participated in in the past can still be a part of the future. Yes, it takes time, patience, planning, and a willingness to ensure seniors are not excluded from activities they love. I met Sorors who have been sorority members for 50 years or more. Countless studies tell us that staying active as we age helps our mental and physical mindset. Age should never define any of us. The Sorors of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority have always been action-oriented and service-driven in all we do.
History: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on January 16, 1920, at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, we know that every good morning and every good night will equal aging. Caring for our seniors is our responsibility. They deserve to enjoy whatever makes them happy and content. The time spent at the Grand Boule watching the sea of seniors enjoy themselves was priceless. The love you share with an aging loved one by ensuring they are active will always be appreciated. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager, CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate and author of From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.