TQA
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Well how about Jeanne Socrates? 3 solo circumnavigations the last being non stop and without using the engine.
Should I take on Project Boat at the age of 70? (Swan Song)
- Thread starter cavitation
- Start date
Well how about Jeanne Socrates? 3 solo circumnavigations the last being non stop and without using the engine.
roblpm
Well-Known Member
My father just died aged 82. He built an eventide which unfortunately burned just before launch. He was about 52 when that happened. He got made redundant late 50s and then spent 25 years sitting in his front room watching the tv and drinking! He undoubtedly should have built another 2. He wasn't particularly interested in sailing, just interested in building boats.
I say go for it!
I say go for it!
cavitation
Well-Known Member
Roblpm, for one of the few times in my life, words fail me, but here goes.
Your story has really moved me and I am sorry about the loss of your Father and the loss of his boat earlier. However with your story ringing in my ears, I am sure I will go for another project boat and your posting has reinforced that, but not this one, it is just too far gone in terms of the basic fabric of the interior.
Regards
coopec
N/A
Quote Originally Posted by roblpm View Post
My father just died aged 82. He built an eventide which unfortunately burned just before launch. He was about 52 when that happened. He got made redundant late 50s and then spent 25 years sitting in his front room watching the tv and drinking! He undoubtedly should have built another 2. He wasn't particularly interested in sailing, just interested in building boats.
I say go for it!
There is another current thread "Is self build worthwhile?" and everyone (including myself) is looking at it in dollar terms. But there is a lot more to it than dollars - enjoyment, exercising the brain.
" How much and what type of mental activity do you need to do to reduce your risk of dementia? The research evidence to date suggests that any activity that involves thinking and learning may be beneficial for brain health and protecting against dementia".
http://yourbrainmatters.org.au/exercise-your-brain
Brain exercise vital: Use it or lose it, visiting expert Dr Michael ... - ABC
► 6:13► 6:13
www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02.../brain.../5290348
Feb 28, 2014
A neuroscientist is warning people need regular brain exercise to help ward off health risks as they age ...
Can you put a dollar on that?
My father just died aged 82. He built an eventide which unfortunately burned just before launch. He was about 52 when that happened. He got made redundant late 50s and then spent 25 years sitting in his front room watching the tv and drinking! He undoubtedly should have built another 2. He wasn't particularly interested in sailing, just interested in building boats.
I say go for it!
There is another current thread "Is self build worthwhile?" and everyone (including myself) is looking at it in dollar terms. But there is a lot more to it than dollars - enjoyment, exercising the brain.
" How much and what type of mental activity do you need to do to reduce your risk of dementia? The research evidence to date suggests that any activity that involves thinking and learning may be beneficial for brain health and protecting against dementia".
http://yourbrainmatters.org.au/exercise-your-brain
Brain exercise vital: Use it or lose it, visiting expert Dr Michael ... - ABC
► 6:13► 6:13
www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02.../brain.../5290348
Feb 28, 2014
A neuroscientist is warning people need regular brain exercise to help ward off health risks as they age ...
Can you put a dollar on that?
Last edited:
William_H
Well-Known Member
It is a very profound question going back to what it is like to get old. Perhaps roblpm is right for his father that he should have built 2 more boats. Certainly as you get older you need to stay active. On the down side is the possiblity of having a half restored or half built boat in the yard when it might become obvious that it will never be finished. This can cause embarrasment and stress. On the other side my old dad as he deteriated had his car in the shed. He loved his cars and I believe it was always a comfort for him to know that it was ready to go if only he could get a bit better. So the answer might be different for everyone. OP might have 40 hrs per week to spend on the project but you definitely will slow down on productivity in age. So perhaps a smaller project but yes you will need something. good luck olewill
Bertramdriver
Well-Known Member
I'm literally in the same boat. Knocking on 70. I've spent 10 rears refurbing my boat and am now in the phase of replacing kit I originally installed. The fact is fatigue is an issue, problem solving takes longer, remembering where I've left tools and parts impossible. Lack of strength and athritus are an issue so if it doesn't have a motor I can't use it. I couldn't function without the other guys in the boatyard, who always help when asked. (Thanks guys)
But when I'm afloat the aches and pains disappear, held at bay by daily doses of boat yoga. I have better vision and mobility, and I feel alive. Truth is that without the boat to keep me involved and active, I would probably just sit in front of the TV and sink my liver.
So if you can still get out of bed without wincing, go for it, but don't do it in your back yard. It can be depressing in winter when you know what needs doing but you haven't got the oomph. It's even worse when it just sits there and stares you out. Sometimes you need to get away from the job. Good luck
Ps if you want to read about my experiences read. "The Bertram, The Aegean and Two Virgins" available from Amazon, Smashwords, iTunes etc. if nothing else you'll get a good laugh out of it.
But when I'm afloat the aches and pains disappear, held at bay by daily doses of boat yoga. I have better vision and mobility, and I feel alive. Truth is that without the boat to keep me involved and active, I would probably just sit in front of the TV and sink my liver.
So if you can still get out of bed without wincing, go for it, but don't do it in your back yard. It can be depressing in winter when you know what needs doing but you haven't got the oomph. It's even worse when it just sits there and stares you out. Sometimes you need to get away from the job. Good luck
Ps if you want to read about my experiences read. "The Bertram, The Aegean and Two Virgins" available from Amazon, Smashwords, iTunes etc. if nothing else you'll get a good laugh out of it.
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IJL
Well-Known Member
I suppose it depends which you enjoy more, sailing boats or building/fixing them. I know a few people who are into classic cars and bikes and the interest is more about the workshop and building something than the driving/riding. I know i'd rather spend the summer on the water rather than in my overalls with the toolbox.
Poignard
Well-Known Member
It doesn't have to be an 'either/or'. I aim to sail in the summer and repair/restore/improve my boat in the winter. Both are enjoyable activities.
roblpm
Well-Known Member
Sorry wasn't really meaning to dump my emotions on to you.
My real points were:
You might be more interested in the work than the sailing. I think some of the posters cant see that thats possible. All I was saying is that I know that is possible. So what if its half done and u cop it!! Not your problem! Leave instructions for disposal if it makes you feel better!
My mother is still working 2 days a week at 72. She is in miles better shape mentally and physically than my dad was at that age. Age itself is not what it used to be.
I can see the point of some people saying that if it is too big it could become overwhelming and depressing. Hiw about a series of smaller projects??!!
Keep us informed!
Cheers
Rob