This chapter gives an account of the practical measures Qing writers employed to address the challenges of aging, articulated in their own words. For example, to mitigate the displeasure associated with gray hair, some writers opted to dye their hair and beard. To combat the common issue of cold feet among the elderly, a tin container filled with hot water, affectionately dubbed the “hot-water spouse,” was typically placed under the blanket during bedtime. Additionally, the consumption of cow’s milk, human milk, wine, ginseng, and other nourishing foods was encouraged to prevent various nutritional problems faced by older adults. Many Qing intellectuals wrote about using canes for mobility support and wearing eyeglasses to enhance vision. Furthermore, some writers mentioned adopting healthy habits, such as walking, to improve blood circulation. The elders were often acutely aware of the inevitability of death, prompting them to reflect on related matters. Some aged writers shared their experiences of planning post-death arrangements to find peace of mind. These preparations included practical steps such as commissioning a portrait from an artist, selecting an appropriate burial site, preparing a good-quality coffin, leaving farewell notes for friends, writing self-mourning poems, inviting pre-mourning contributions, and drafting a self-representational epitaph in advance.

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Coping with Aging Challenges

  • Clara Wing-chung Ho

摘要

This chapter gives an account of the practical measures Qing writers employed to address the challenges of aging, articulated in their own words. For example, to mitigate the displeasure associated with gray hair, some writers opted to dye their hair and beard. To combat the common issue of cold feet among the elderly, a tin container filled with hot water, affectionately dubbed the “hot-water spouse,” was typically placed under the blanket during bedtime. Additionally, the consumption of cow’s milk, human milk, wine, ginseng, and other nourishing foods was encouraged to prevent various nutritional problems faced by older adults. Many Qing intellectuals wrote about using canes for mobility support and wearing eyeglasses to enhance vision. Furthermore, some writers mentioned adopting healthy habits, such as walking, to improve blood circulation. The elders were often acutely aware of the inevitability of death, prompting them to reflect on related matters. Some aged writers shared their experiences of planning post-death arrangements to find peace of mind. These preparations included practical steps such as commissioning a portrait from an artist, selecting an appropriate burial site, preparing a good-quality coffin, leaving farewell notes for friends, writing self-mourning poems, inviting pre-mourning contributions, and drafting a self-representational epitaph in advance.