Turning 80 was not a big deal to me but my longtime tennis friend (78) thought otherwise and started kidding me about my age. In jest, of course. So, is 80 old? Yeah, “it’s up there.” But how old depends on many things. Your lifestyle. Your physical activity. Your attitude and your DNA, although DNA accounts for only 20% or less toward longevity. Because your parents or grandparents lived into their 90s doesn’t mean that you will.
What Counts? Exercise for one thing. What you’ve heard a thousand times is true. Doctors and health gurus have been preaching the benefits of exercise for years because it works. I don’t consider myself an exercise fanatic but believe my playing USTA tennis for the past 40 years has helped keep me healthy and active. Equally important to physical exercise is your lifestyle. I’m not a health nut either but do watch what I eat and drink, though I love In-N-Out protein burgers, my favorite fast food. Having a positive attitude helps, too. I believe the glass is “half-full” and that people are basically good and kind. One of my idols is Dr. Walter M. Bortz, 93. He’s an expert in wellness and longevity, ran marathons in his late 80’s and wrote nine books including my favorite “Dare To Be 100.” When I asked what keeps him going, he replied
“Make Yourself Useful” Look yourself in the mirror and ask, “Am I Still Necessary? If the answer is yes, then life goes on and worth living. As many of you may know, I write and publish a digital monthly publication for boomers and seniors named The Scoop. After I turned 80, my financial advisor asked:
“Why do you do it? It’s hard work.”
“You’re not getting any younger and you’re not getting rich.”
It ain’t about the money. That’s for sure. Publishing and writing has been a labor of love of mine for the past 20 years. My readers are the major reason “why I do it.” Their feedback keeps me going.
“ActiveOver50 is always so well done, an interesting read and a wealth of information.”
“I so enjoyed this issue and found the articles very illuminating. I especially enjoyed the "Trip to Santa Barbara" since that city is so important to me. Thanks for continuing with this labor of love!”
“I wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you that I'm loving your online "The Scoop!" publication. You've done a great job with that.” |