Activity Improves the Mind and Body

Cindy K. Sproles

Our mother is 97 years old, and we’re fortunate she is in excellent health. For a 97-year-old she takes one blood pressure pill and a thyroid tablet, but more so, our mother is mentally exquisite. Though she lives in an assistive living facility, she keeps physically and mentally active.

Mother is a voracious reader, taking in a novel a week. She walks five rounds daily through her living facility, participates in the residence activities, and she is a master quilter, turning out a queen-sized hand-quilted masterpiece every two months. It’s safe to say, mother loves her hobbies.

It’s proven that engaging in activities that interest us improve our physical and mental health as we age. Remaining active doesn’t always mean heavy exercise. Instead, it’s physically and mentally stimulating our bodies and minds. The adage “A healthy mind is a healthy body” bears much truth.

When our seniors remain active, it may lessen their risks of dementia, heart disease or stroke, and even some types of cancer. Keeping our loved ones active can help provide a longer life span. Active seniors are much happier and more content and find maintaining friendships and family relationships easier. In essence, activity raises positive feelings.

By this same token, finding engaging hobbies and activities lessens depression and increases their ability to cope when faced with challenging issues. Active seniors tend to bounce back easier when strapped with illness and appear to have stronger resilience.

Obviously, not all seniors have the ability or health to be active. Some health issues take this from them early. However, encouraging interaction on any level improves the quality of life.

Encourage your loved one to get involved. Play board games and cards and read. Walk if able, enjoy watching birds or doing crafty activities. Even reconnecting with old friends and family constitutes an activity that stimulates the brain.

Our mother is healthy, but more importantly, she is happy and engaged. We see signs of aging in her memory, but they are normal signs of being 97 years old. We will continue to encourage her to be active as long as she is able. When she enjoys her elder years, we can enjoy her to a greater extent.

Seek out activities that will help your loved one become an active part of their community and enjoy the results of a happier senior.

Cinco de Mayo is a festive occasion that celebrates Mexican culture and food. Cinco de Mayo commemorates a minor Mexican victory over France that took place on May 5, 1862 at the Battle of Puebla. While it has never been a big deal in Mexico—especially in comparison to celebrations of Mexico’s independence—Cinco de Mayo has become a festive phenomenon north of the border. When it comes to food and beverage, many people see Cinco de Mayo as an excuse to indulge in a few margaritas and dine on tacos.