Sorry Johnny Depp. You're just not that cool. It's not that you're too old or past your prime.
It's that, well, you're too young.
Betty White is America's coolest person and she's 88 years old.
She's edgy, salty, quick witted and current. She's a crate-of-kittens-cute juxtaposition of age and trendiness. Somehow, she's always unexpected even though we know what's coming.
When she hosted Saturday Night Live a few weeks ago, she gave the show it's best ratings in months. And she was hilarious.
Is it any surprise we love Betty White so much?
She inspires the young to think differently about their grandparents. She makes their grandparents laugh out loud with her classic timing and wit.
As a senior caregiver, I know you can appreciate how refreshing it is to see America rally around the wit, humor and wisdom of an octogenarian. It's about time we had an example of a senior who held her own and zinged back at the younger pups.
For example, last month Sandra Bullock presented White the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award.
Bullock and White were co-stars in the film "The Proposal," so Bullock took the opportunity to give White a friendly mini-roasting before she turned over the microphone.
When White took over she said, "With all of the wonderful things that have happened to Sandra, isn't it heartening to see how far a girl as plain as she is can go?" The audience roared.
How can you be as cool as Betty White?
Follow these three steps and you're sure to keep your grandkids and your friends impressed.
Stay Current
It's easy to dismiss Facebook and MySpace (or as my uncle calls it, "MyFace"), as kid stuff. The thing is, this is how an entire generation communicates. More people log on to social networks like Facebook everyday than email. So, stay current and you'll be more relevant to your grandkids. If you need more convincing, read why everyone over 80 should be on Facebook.
Keep Working
We really can't say this is a resurgent Betty White. She's been acting since the 1930's without much of a break. I'm not suggesting you should never retire, but staying active has helped White. When it's time for you to exit your career, think of another way to stay engaged. There are hundreds of charities and educational organizations that would be thrilled to have a seasoned executive volunteer for their cause.
Speak Your Mind
When you ask Betty White a question, you know you're going to get her honest response. She's assertive and thoughtful. She reflects the inherent wisdom that is a prerequisite for good humor. With the experience of 88 years, White knows she has the authority to speak her mind. And, she does.
These three steps will put you on track to be as cool as Betty White. But remember, being flat our hilarious doesn't hurt either.
The president of one of Betty White's fan clubs spoke to her recently to discuss her popularity and buzz. "When you're hot, you're hot," said the fan. White replied, "When you're old, you're old."
Well, she's right. But, we know you can be both.
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