When the Days Grow Quiet: Why Men Must Plan For Their Old Age

KEY POINTS
Men who ignore their well-being during their younger years often face preventable illnesses in old age. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise are investments in longevity. Neglecting these is akin to refusing to repair a leaking roof—eventually, the whole house collapses. As the elders say, "He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything."
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Spiritual and emotional growth are equally essential. Developing a sense of inner peace and resilience helps weather the inevitable challenges of aging. Those who rely solely on external validation or material wealth often crumble when these are stripped away. "A man with a calm heart can face any storm."
As men navigate the twists and turns of life, many live under the illusion that their youth, strength, and authority will always sustain them. Yet, as sure as the sun sets each evening, old age comes for all, bringing with it vulnerabilities that often expose unprepared men to the harsh realities of dependence. Without foresight, these twilight years can turn into a season of loneliness, regret, and indignity.
Consider the common refrain of men who once ruled their homes with iron fists: “When I was young, I was invincible.” However, invincibility is a fleeting illusion. The wives they overlooked, the children they neglected, and the friends they alienated during their prime may no longer be available—or willing—to offer comfort when frailty sets in. As an African proverb warns, “He who does not cultivate his field in youth will have no harvest in old age.”
Read Also: Why You Must Start Thinking About Your Retirement Now With NSSF
Too many men ignore the wisdom of planning. Instead of building relationships and securing their future, they indulge in fleeting pleasures. They wield authority over their families, assuming their wives will always be there to cook, clean, and provide company. Yet, as years pass, they find themselves alone, reflecting bitterly on opportunities squandered. For some, like the man whose wife left for “temporary” reasons and never returned, the tables turn. Old age becomes a reckoning.
One cannot rely on others to bear the full weight of their existence. Children, though loving, are not retirement plans. Wives, though supportive, are not shackled to endure mistreatment forever. Relationships require investment, not dominance. As the saying goes, “A man who builds bridges of love will never find himself stranded.”
Financial independence is another cornerstone of a dignified old age. Men must save, invest, and prepare for the inevitable. Relying solely on pensions or occasional handouts from children is a recipe for disappointment. Inflation, emergencies, and shifting family dynamics can render such plans inadequate. A Chinese proverb reminds us, “The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second-best time is now.” Secure your future today, or face the consequences tomorrow.
Beyond finances, emotional preparation is equally vital. Loneliness is a silent killer. Old men often find themselves isolated, lacking genuine friendships because they focused solely on work or fleeting romantic pursuits in their youth. Building and maintaining strong friendships ensures that the sunsets of life are shared, not solitary. “A friend in old age is a shield against the cold,” as the wise have often said.
Health, too, cannot be neglected. Men who ignore their well-being during their younger years often face preventable illnesses in old age. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise are investments in longevity. Neglecting these is akin to refusing to repair a leaking roof—eventually, the whole house collapses. As the elders say, “He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything.”
The story of the man abandoned by his wife paints a vivid picture of what happens when a lifetime of poor decisions comes to a head. Some men fail to recognize the simmering resentment of their partners until it’s too late. Others dismiss their wives’ sacrifices, assuming they will always remain subservient. However, the dynamics shift as the years pass. Women who once tolerated disrespect grow tired of the imbalance, and some, like the wife in the proverbial story, choose liberation over loyalty.
Revenge, as illustrated by the proverbial wife’s deliberate absence, is not uncommon. It may not always be overt, but it manifests in subtle ways—withdrawn affection, emotional distance, or outright abandonment. Men must understand that the seeds they sow in their relationships determine the harvest they reap in old age. “The hand that sows injustice will reap calamity.”
In their prime, men often focus on careers, hobbies, or societal expectations, neglecting to nurture their families. Yet, families are like gardens; they require consistent care and attention. Neglecting these bonds leads to bitter fruit in later years. “What you give is what you get,” as an old saying reminds us.
Moreover, men should cultivate hobbies and interests outside of work. Retirement often brings a void that work once filled. Having passions and activities provides purpose and keeps the mind sharp. A man without purpose in old age is like a ship adrift in a storm—aimless and vulnerable.
Read Also: Why You Should Save For Retirement
Spiritual and emotional growth are equally essential. Developing a sense of inner peace and resilience helps weather the inevitable challenges of aging. Those who rely solely on external validation or material wealth often crumble when these are stripped away. “A man with a calm heart can face any storm.”
In many cultures, men are conditioned to suppress vulnerability, but this stoicism often backfires. Old age is a time when vulnerability becomes unavoidable. Accepting this truth and preparing for it is not weakness but wisdom. As the elders say, “The wise man bends so he does not break.”
This discussion is not meant to instill fear but to ignite foresight. Men have the power to shape their futures. By planning financially, nurturing relationships, prioritizing health, and fostering emotional resilience, they can ensure their later years are filled with dignity and contentment.
The story of the abandoned husband is a cautionary tale, but it need not be the norm. Men can take charge of their destinies, ensuring that old age is not a season of regret but a time of peace and fulfillment. After all, “It is better to start mending the roof while the sun is still shining.”
Read Also: How To Seamlessly Access Your NSSF Retirement Benefits In Kenya
About Steve Biko Wafula
Steve Biko is the CEO OF Soko Directory and the founder of Hidalgo Group of Companies. Steve is currently developing his career in law, finance, entrepreneurship and digital consultancy; and has been implementing consultancy assignments for client organizations comprising of trainings besides capacity building in entrepreneurial matters. He can be reached on: +254 20 510 1124 or Email: info@sokodirectory.com
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