Some seniors are living life to the hilt. What do you enjoy in life? If you had your druthers, what’s your ideal activity in your spare time? If you keep yourself in good, fit shape — under the eye of your physician, of course — and want to continue skiing into your 80′s, why not? Just because age is catching up with you, your spirit and wellness can still be the key to staying fit and able to do sports you’ve always relished.

We used to ski in Montana at Big Mountain near Whitefish. Every year we’d see a couple of guys in their 70′s and 80′s. As 40-something boomers, we were always in awe. But why is that?
Frame of mind is one reason. Excellent health is another. And joy of life, nurturing your spirit, has a lot to do with it, too.

Let me give you two examples.

Senior One

This 81-year-old senior lost her husband four years ago and made a choice then she would never be the same. She spent most of her married years living in one house. Her choice after his death was to sit in a “lift” recliner, watch TV, read, cook and do not much else. She hasn’t ventured out of her house much in all that time. She decided then, her house and possessions were her life.

Now her muscles have atrophied, her arthritis has worsened and she is pretty well in a rut. She can’t reach upper cupboards, can’t clean (does have a housekeeper) and can’t walk too quickly. She still chooses to sit. She was offered physical therapy, but found it too “hard.”

Her children are wondering how long she’ll be able to live by herself. She doesn’t want to go into assisted living or live with her kids, so that’s another matter her family will have to deal with. She seems lonely and unhappy.

Senior Two

At 76-years-old, this senior lost his wife five years ago. He had a tough two years before he could finally figure out what to do with himself. He has always liked to travel, so he spent the majority of his time on the road or in the air visiting family and seeing sights until he could get his feet back on the ground and start living alone and liking it.

A year or so ago he decided to get an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and join his now 79-year-old friend in riding logging roads and looking over the country. They try to get out at least once a week and have a great time. He’s showing his age, but keeping his muscles working and has no intention of giving up his hobby. He looks forward to his days.

So which senior would you aspire to imitate? Senior One or Senior Two?

Well, there’s no correct answer, because we’re all different. Senior One may be just as content where she is with her life. Who knows? But she didn’t prepare herself for good health. Senior Two’s life is certainly not for Senior One. Nor is the 80′s skier. However, they are keeping fit to make sure they do have other choices when they get up in the morning so they can keep on doing what they like to do.

What are you doing to ensure a healthy, fun life?

If you answered nothing, do know you’re never too old to change things. It is a choice. Whatever it is, be sure it’s the right choice for you when you make it.