August 2025

When Next Becomes a Lifeline.

The profound transitions we experience as we age was something I did not truly appreciate until I began working at Next.

In our younger years, we celebrate important milestones; new jobs, marriages or a growing family. There are also plenty of events to celebrate as we age, but there are also significant life-altering experiences that are very difficult to navigate.

These profound transitions — retirement's identity shift, a spouse's death, close friends relocating to warmer climates or the first serious diagnosis that changes everything — create a unique form of isolation. Many outsiders often struggle to grasp the magnitude of these changes. They see physical needs but miss the deeper upheaval of reimagining life's purpose when familiar roles disappear.

Next provides a safe place where these new challenges are met with understanding. Being in the company of others who share similar experiences, allows us to process major life changes on our own time-line — with support.

When we retire, we leave behind a decade’s long career. One that filled your days with structure, meaning and purpose. Retirement is what most strive for, but it also is a tremendous shift and can often mean losing your identity.

That thought echoes through the experiences of many who find their way to Next. The challenges that arrive with aging aren't just physical — they cut to the core of identity and belonging.

When Lynn’s husband of forty-seven years suddenly passed away, people meant well when they suggest she "just keep busy." But grief isn't cured by staying busy. It requires understanding from people who know that losing a life partner means relearning how to be yourself.

This is where Next becomes more than a senior center. It becomes a bridge to a new normal.

When Carol joined Next, she complained of chronic pain and worried about losing her independence. She joined a Tai Chi class at the suggestion of her doctor, and discovered others who understood her worries because they too had similar stories. The group welcomed her, offering friendship that provided strength.

Peter, discovered he has a gift for teaching others computer skills. His patient explanations and genuine enthusiasm help novices navigate technology they once found intimidating. Peter even surprised himself at how much he enjoyed teaching, giving meaning to his days.

Next understands that these life transitions require more than activities—they require community built on shared understanding.

Here, no one questions why some days are harder than others or why starting over at seventy feels both terrifying and exciting.

Members recognize the courage it takes to walk through these doors when everything familiar has shifted.

What emerges isn't a replacement for what was lost, but something entirely new.

Next provides the foundation—a place where profound life changes are met with understanding, where new identities can emerge, and where the future holds promise rather than just memories.

Cris Braun is Executive Director of Birmingham Next