seniors

A new study of almost 4,400 Americans has found that staying moderately fit and active may help you live longer.

The study was of healthy adults, also taking into account other health factors such as obesity and diabetes. The researchers found that the 20% with the lowest fitness levels were twice as likely to die within the next nine years, as the 20% with the next-lowest fitness levels.

A study of 1,800 people in their seventies, undertaken by Columbia University, found that diet and exercise are both factors in preventing the development of Alzheimer's, whether alone or in combination.

This is believed to be the first study where diet and exercise have been considered as separate factors in reducing the chances of developing Alzheimer's.

2 recent events have prompted me to think about healthy aging. The first was being asked by a magazine editor about goals; something everyone should accomplish or experience at some point in their lives (I'll get my response later). The other was a rare opportunity to visit my Grandmother and Great Aunt - two of my favorite people ever, and both well into octogenarian-hood.

Here are some things to think about whether you are getting on in age, aspire to reach old age in the best health possible, or want to help someone in your life who is getting on in age.