Because I work with the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and also because of we live in a generally ageist society, a significant number of my clients and readers of this newsletter are "mature job seekers."
A recent health scare reminds me how, as much as we are told (by career experts) to project energy and and /enthusiasm, we must bear in mind that as we age we are more susceptible to some diseases and conditions, and heal more slowly, compared to when we were so young.
My recent case/condition hit me suddenly. It took around five days for medical people to determine what was going on inside me; so when they said I needed to start on antibiotics immediately, I was astounded CVS texted me that it would fill the prescription in about ten days. (By the way, their excuse for everything is a "staff shortage.)
So, this month I'm telling you to not take anything health-related for granted.
Covid, the flu, the common cold, bacteria, mold, infections---They are all still out there.
But the high quality health services you might remember pre-pandemic do not exist anymore. Appointments are further out. Waiting times are up. Test results take days to come back, instead of overnight.
Just about every place has staff shortages. I saw one doctor over the course of a week---and I'm including multiple locations. Everyone else I saw was a physician's assistant, nurse, or nurse's aid. (Not that there's anything wrong with those occupations. I'm merely pointing out the shortage of doctors.)
On the positive side, I am pleased to say how they are all working hard.
And somehow, in spite of their workload, they smile and listen and enable you to feel valued and feel assured that you are in good hands.
On the other hand, CVS does not answer phones and seems to think that a staffing shortage is an excuse for poor customer service. If you have an issue, you must go to the store wait in line, and explain (for example) how you need that prescription, otherwise you will probably develop sepsis.
That's the new normal to which we must all adapt. One of the easiest ways to adapt is to be a bit more diligent with our own health habits.
So, please watch your diet; exercise; know your blood pressure and typical pulse & heartbeat. Stay hydrated. If you feel "off" for several days as I did, don't ignore it. (Madonna ignored her infection for weeks; look what happened to her.)
As much as I joke "I never want to see you again," because I want you to get a great job, I really do look forward to seeing and assisting all of you.
Stay healthy my friends.
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