🌿 Folk Prescriptions

Elderly ailments are generally caused by bodily aging, but some result from emotional imbalance. Hence, advising the elderly to embrace a "light-hearted life" is appropriate.
The first principle is lightness regarding fame and fortune. Fame and wealth are external things—neither brought at birth nor taken at death. If one unconsciously pursues them obsessively, treating them as burdens, they will only grow heavier, suffocating you. Ultimately, one might end up ruined in reputation and character—why go through such suffering? Only by wholeheartedly serving the Party and the people, viewing fame and fortune as worthless, and becoming a genuine Marxist, can one earn true respect.
The second is lightness regarding honor and disgrace. Life’s path is winding—filled with ideals and disappointments, joys and sorrows, glories and humiliations. Do not dwell excessively on personal gains and losses; treat honor and disgrace with detachment. Remain calm when praised, and accept humiliation with equanimity.
The third is forgetting age. Elderly people often fear growing old, easily developing fear and frequently saying things like “I’m too old” or “I’m no longer useful”—emotional reflections and passive attitudes toward life’s end, casting shadows over health and negatively affecting the body. Recognize your advantage of rich experience; there are still many things society needs from you. By forgetting age and psychologically freeing yourself, you can regain youthfulness.
The fourth is forgetting physical form. As Zhuangzi said: “The one who nurtures life forgets his body.” That is, health preservation should involve forgetting the existence of one’s aging physique. Then, nothing need be feared. When ill, one can face it correctly, avoiding pessimism, anxiety, and passivity, actively seeking treatment—naturally aiding in overcoming illness and restoring health.
The fifth is lightness regarding clothing and food. For daily living and diet, do not demand extravagance. Acknowledge physiological changes in old age—prefer quiet surroundings, wear warm clothes, eat light meals, avoid luxury and indulgence in food and drink. Prevent harm to body and mind.
The sixth is lightness regarding emotions. All joys, anger, sorrow, and happiness should be treated lightly, allowing mental freedom. Letting go means not disturbing oneself, not grieving, not sinking into despair—viewing presence as absence, maintaining broad-mindedness.
Finally, lightness in friendship. Ancient sages said: “Gentlemen’s conversations are like water.” We should follow this ancient teaching in making friends. Friendship benefits people of all ages. Having one or two close friends brings even greater advantages—helping eliminate feelings of loneliness, isolation, and emptiness. True friends are united by shared values and mutual affection, not material exchanges. Genuine connection, mutual support, learning from each other, and sharing joy enrich later life, making it fuller, better, and healthier—promoting longevity and well-being.