Age your way: rocking chairs and fireplaces are fine. But you might want to consider some health-building additions to your retirement years

Vibrant Life, Sept-Oct, 2004 by Barbara Anan Kogan

Tommy G. Thompson is 62 years old and the highest-ranking healthcare official in America, appointed by the president as secretary of the US. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). "Being physically active can prevent many of the most common medical conditions of old age," he recently wrote. He went on to add that a nonsedentary lifestyle that includes walking or gardening helps maintain not only physical health, but mental wellness as well. Among the risk reductions he outlined are obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, stroke, and depression.

His motivating message isn't falling on deaf ears. This country is experiencing a groundswell of services and opportunities for those of us who are "chronologically challenged," making it possible for us to enjoy life far beyond our allotted threescore and 10 years.

If your sunset years are beginning to seem a little depressing, consider taking advantage of some of the following options. Don't worry. The ol' rocking chair and cozy fireplace will still be there, waiting for you to enjoy during a break from your new, improved, active lifestyle.

Health Clubs

What was once the domain of young, hormone-flooded muscle builders is becoming a sanctuary for the "over-the-hill" crowd as well. Health clubs are developing aerobic (cardiorespiratory) activities especially targeted for the older set. According to the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30 minutes of moderately intense physical activity five or more days a week can do wonders to one's health. Some facilities are forming swim clubs offering water aerobics classes--an option perfectly suited for those suffering from arthritis.

Hospitals

Many hospitals offer senior programs that include indoor physical activities highlighting ancient collections of low-impact movements and stances that help improve memory, coordination, breathing, and flexibility. A recent study funded by the HHS's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, campus found that these exercises can improve the immune system. Other hospital-based activities include safe and gentle range-of-motion exercises with guided visualization and relaxation techniques.

Walking Clubs

Check out the "senior activities section" of your local newspaper, and you may find a fun alternative to walking alone. Walking clubs provide an incentive to keep on the program as you enjoy the company of others. If you walk alone, do as my 85-year-old grandfather does. Go for "twalks"; taking time to chat with neighbors, delivery people, or school children along the way. Be sure to take the time to "twalk" with God as you appreciate the beauty of nature's year-round panorama.

Gardening

"Life is a garden. Dig it!" says Lee Dickerson, a Stone Mountain, Georgia, resident and president of family-owned GP, a contact lens manufacturing laboratory. His lifestyle and ethics are based on his strong principles of faith and hard work. His message, he insists, is as clear as someone's vision when using his products. Gardening's physical activity is gentle, relaxing, and stimulating as you plant and maintain shrubs, flowers, herbs, vegetables, and fruits. At the end of the season, you get to enjoy the nutritional harvest at your dinner table.

Computer Classes

Minds need exercising, too. Senior centers, social rooms in residential developments, and universities offer computer classes. Septu- and octogenarians represent the fastest growing group of students seated at today's keyboards. The American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) found that 36 percent of seniors use the Internet as a study format.

Learning a new skill stimulates the brain's nerve cells and keeps the blood flowing throughout the beady. Computers also provide a link with nearby and distant family members and friends through e-mail letters. Where else can you see full-color pictures of your grandchild eating spaghetti with her fists moments after the event?

Speaking of computers, in October 2003 the NIH's National Library of Medicine's director, Donald Lindberg, M.D., joined longtime Iowa senator Tom Harkin to announce the launching of a new Web site for seniors (www.nih seniorhealth.gov). This user-friendly site allows for enlarged, high contrast, easy-to-see text that provides information for older adults on exercise and the latest health research. One recent posting included information on dietary supplements and how they function to help maintain good health.

Colleges and Universities

Up for some serious learning? Many colleges and universities offer to seniors free classes taught by retirees fresh from the course profession. Attending these classes provides stimulation to improve your thought processes and gives you ample opportunity to meet and greet before and after sessions for some friendly conversation. If you're not comfortable in a school atmosphere, consider at-borne learning, using reading material from newspapers, books, magazines, and journals to keep yourself up-to-date on your favorite topic.