Years ago, retirement from a career meant carefree days of leisure and travel. Today, however, people are working longer and retiring later. Many find that retirement has brought the aches and pains of aging rather than freedom and opportunity.

There are many factors that determine whether we become robust and active seniors, and whether we live into our 80s, 90s, or older. Genetics is one such factor that we can't control. If your grandparents lived to be 90 or 100, it is more likely that you will, too, as longevity tends to run in families. You will also be more likely to live to a ripe old age if your genetic makeup doesn't favor chronic conditions, like heart disease, diabetes or other ailments that can shorten life spans.

Environment and education also play a role. It has been shown that highly educated people outlive their less educated counterparts. Those raised in families that value education and encourage intellectual development often retain those values throughout their lives. Hobbies that engage the mind, reading, sewing or woodworking for example, have been shown to be a factor in not only long life, but a better quality of life as well.

The factor we do have control over is our lifestyles. Healthcare professionals agree that healthy aging begins long before a person reaches retirement age. By living a healthy lifestyle that includes a sensible diet, regular exercise, intellectual stimulation and plenty of restful sleep, younger adults can help prevent the chronic ailments that can later restrict activities and reduce independence. Although healthy habits are beneficial at any age, starting early will have a greater impact.

"Healthy aging is about taking care of yourself, " says Lorey Delap, MSW, Community Educator for EJGH's Geriatric Behavioral Health Unit. "The earlier you start, the better off you'll be."

The Mind/Body Connection
The connection between mental and physical health is strong at any age, but may become even stronger as we age. In older adults, problems like depression or loneliness can manifest as physical symptoms. Likewise, physical problems can adversely affect state of mind.

Depression is a major problem among adults over the age of 65. In fact, these adults make up only 13 percent of the US population, but account for 18 percent of all suicides. Often, depression in older adults is difficult to diagnose. Family members may dismiss depressive symptoms as grumpiness or assume that the confusion depression often causes is a sign of Alzheimer's disease. However the symptoms present, it is important to know that depression is not a normal part of aging and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

There are many factors that make depression a prevalent problem among seniors. For one, they are more likely to experience the kind of life events, death of a friend or major illness for example, that can cause depression than younger people are. Seniors are also more likely than younger adults to take multiple prescription drugs. Certain drugs or combinations of drugs for conditions like arthritis, high blood pressure or heart disease are known to cause depression in some people. In these cases, a simple medication adjustment may be all that is necessary to relieve symptoms of depression.

Certain physical problems may become more difficult to deal with as we age, and their effects on mental health can be amplified. A simple urinary tract infection, for example, may be enough to cause depression and confusion that mimic symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Chemical imbalances are also a common cause of behavioral changes. These imbalances are easily detected through laboratory tests and can usually be treated effectively.

Clinical depression can strike people of all ages, even children. It is important to address the problem as soon as symptoms appear so that treatment, through therapy or antidepressant medication, can begin. Addressing depression early will help keep it under control later in life, which will improve the health of both the mind and body.

Exercise Your Mind
According to Lorey, staying active mentally is just as important as staying active physically, especially for seniors. She advises doing crosswords or other puzzles, taking a class or starting a new hobby.

"If there's something you've always wanted to do, then do it now," says Lorey. "Learning new skills is an enjoyable way to keep your mind active."

Lorey says that learning any new skill will benefit mental health. For example, she says, if you rely on your grandson to set the clock on your VCR, consider having him teach you how to set it yourself instead. If you've never used one, computers offer numerous opportunities to learn new things and can have other benefits as well. Learning how to email, for example, provides an easy way to stay in touch with family and friends. Once you've mastered email, learn how to send and receive photographs or music files. Keep adding new skills to your repertoire after you've mastered the basics.

Even those who develop Alzheimer's disease fare better if they make exercising the mind part of their lifestyle. These patients suffer less memory loss and are able to function longer than patients who don't routinely challenge themselves mentally.

EJGH Volunteer Services Supervisor Nina Victory says many of the seniors who volunteer at the hospital are shining examples of the value of keeping the mind engaged. In general, she says, volunteers request assignments that give them a chance to learn something new. Retired volunteers often have no interest in doing something that relates to their years in the workforce; they are ready to try something they haven't done before. And they don't want to sit at a desk, but rather seek to interact with patients, staff and visitors.
Nina points to one of the volunteers in her office as an example of the enthusiasm with which senior volunteers approach new tasks. This volunteer is in her 80s and has been with the hospital for 31 years. Recently, Nina asked her if she would like to learn how to enter data into the computer. Since she had never touched a computer before, Nina wasn't sure how the volunteer would react. Nina was pleased to find that the volunteer was not only willing, but eager to expand her horizons and learn a new skill. She is now an integral part of the office team, providing much-needed assistance to the staff and enjoying every minute.

"When you retire, you have to decide what you want do," says Nina. "Change your daily lifestyle, but always keep going."

Keep a Schedule
Nina says that happy, active senior volunteers have one important thing in common: they plan their days and stick to a schedule. And they keep busy - very busy. In addition to their hospital volunteer hours, many of them volunteer for other agencies, meet with friends, play cards or take part in an organized sport on a regular basis.

"A lot of volunteers are busier now than they were when they worked," says Nina. "Just because you're retired doesn't mean you should sit at home all day."

From what she's seen, Nina is convinced that seniors who stay busy live longer and have a better quality of life than those who don't. But busy work isn't enough. "It's not just staying busy, but having fun while you're doing it," she adds.

Be Part of a Community
Staying active and enjoying life requires that you connect with people. Any group can offer the benefits of social interaction - bowling teams, bridge groups, or a few friends with a regular lunch date.

Senior volunteers at EJGH are a good example of this. Nina says that volunteers rarely work their assigned hours and leave. They bond with their fellow volunteers, especially those they work closely with. Nina points to the groups that work together at the information desks as close-knit groups who enjoy each other's company. Several longtime volunteers have become involved in the Volunteer Advisory Council, serving as role models and guides to new volunteers. They visit new volunteers in their assigned departments to make sure things are going well and to help m them feel welcomed and comfortable. Nina says the program works because volunteers relate better to their fellow volunteers than to paid staff members.

Say 'No' to Aches & Pains
In addition to physical discomfort, pain can affect a person's mental state. Pain can make a person withdraw from family and friends and avoid the activities he or she once enjoyed. Pain is a common cause of depression and may contribute to signs of confusion.

"Pain takes up a lot of energy," says Lorey. "It can severely diminish your ability to concentrate."

Many people regard aches and pains as an inevitable part of growing older. But pain is a sign of a problem, not a normal part of aging, and should be evaluated by a physician. Once the underlying cause is determined, a variety of methods are available to help manage and control pain.

Dealing with pain from chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, doesn't necessarily mean relying on pharmaceuticals. Alternative therapies, including massage, hydrotherapy and aquatic exercise, can help relieve symptoms and make exercise easier without the side effects caused by some medications. An added bonus is that these therapies promote relaxation help reduce stress. Such services are available at area spas and at the EJGH Wellness Center. Call 849-6868 for information about Wellness Center offerings.

Exercise
Regular exercise is important at any age, and seniors have much to gain by making an exercise routine part of their lifestyle. Added benefits for seniors who exercise include preventing or delaying the onset of disease or disability and maintaining four key elements of independence: strength, flexibility, balance and endurance.

Consulting your physician before starting a new exercise program is advised for men over 40 or women over 50. It is also a good idea to consult your doctor if you have a chronic health problem like heart disease or diabetes, or if you smoke or are obese. Once you have begun your program, your doctor should be informed of any new symptoms, chest pain, shortness of breath or rapid or irregular heartbeat.

The National Institutes of Health advises seniors and younger adults to set realistic goals and make safety a priority. Start by making a 30-day commitment to your exercise program - a reasonable goal that will leave you feeling positive and motivated when you achieve it.
If an exercise program is new to you, you may wish to schedule a session with a personal trainer. These professionals can assess your abilities and design a program that will help you reach your goals. They also provide motivation and help keep your routine from becoming monotonous. It isn't necessary to have a trainer with you every time you exercise; consulting with a trainer every few months will probably be sufficient. For more information on the benefits of working with a personal trainer, see page 6.

It's important to find the right kind of exercise for you. The best program will be enjoyable, safe and put you on the road to reaching your goals. If you don't enjoy exercising by yourself, consider joining a class. Aside from the social benefits, classmates can be strong motivators. And a class doesn't necessarily mean aerobics - there are a variety of different exercise disciplines, including tai chi, Pilates and yoga, that offer benefits for both the mind and body. For a listing of classes at the Wellness Center, call 849-6868 or log on to www.ejgh.org.

Eat Well
Good nutrition is vital to good health at any age, and much of the advice given to younger adults applies to seniors as well. Moderation and variety are important to maintaining good health and keeping healthy meal choices interesting.

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day, whether you're 16 or 66. It's important to start every day with a healthy breakfast so you'll have energy for the rest of the day. Cereal with low fat milk, toast and muffins are good choices for a quick and easy morning meal.

Throughout the day, chose a variety of high-fiber foods like whole-grain breads and fresh fruit, lean meats and three servings a day of low fat dairy foods, such as skim milk, yogurt or cheese. Keep nutritious snacks on hand, such as dried fruit, crackers and peanut butter or granola bars, instead of eating chips or candy. It is also important to drink plenty of water, eight to ten glasses per day, to stay hydrated. Thirst tends to decrease with age, so it is important to keep track of your fluid intake and drink the recommended amount of water even if you aren't thirsty.

For seniors (or younger adults) who live alone, shopping and cooking for one can be a challenge. Shopping with a friend can make a boring chore enjoyable and help you save money on your groceries. If you can't use a whole bag of potatoes or an entire head of lettuce, split it with a friend - you'll save money and food won't go to waste. You might also consider cooking and eating together to make mealtime more enjoyable.

Some people find, as they age, that they don't enjoy food like they used to. Favorite foods may taste different than they used to or may seem bland and in need of salt. This is because our senses of smell and taste change with age. Try experimenting with new spices and recipes to find something you enjoy. Talk to your physician about your medications if your sense of taste changes or if your appetite decreases. Some prescription medications are known to have these effects.

Get Some ZZZs
Sleep is just as important to seniors as it is to younger adults, but it may be harder to get. Sleep difficulties, like insomnia, become more common with age. Many seniors have difficulty staying asleep, sleep more lightly and wake up more frequently during the night. There are many reasons for sleep disturbances. Pain from conditions like arthritis, depression, and common prescription and over-the-counter medications can all affect the ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Also, older adults produce lower levels of the hormones and other chemicals in the brain that promote restful sleep.

According to the National Council on Aging, insomnia is not unavoidable. They advise increasing daytime activity, exercising early in the day rather than in the evening, and avoiding daytime naps. It is also a good idea to spend some time outside. Sunlight is the chief regulator of our circadian rhythms. Working in the garden or taking an afternoon walk instead of camping out in front of the television may help you keep a regular sleep/wake cycle.

If you are unable to solve sleep-related problems on your own, talk to your doctor. You may need to be evaluated for a sleep disorder, like sleep apnea. If your medications are to blame, your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage or type to help you get a good night's sleep.

Start Now
For those of us still in our 30s, 40s or 50s, it isn't too early to start thinking about how we will age. Developing the habits of a healthy lifestyle now will help ensure that old age is as active and rewarding as it possibly can be. It is especially important for young adults to make positive lifestyle changes now because they will rely on healthy bodies and sharp minds far longer than previous generations did.

"We have to work longer than our parents and grandparents did," says Nina. "So we'd better take care of ourselves."

Nina says her years of working with seniors have given her a positive outlook on the aging process. Every day she sees examples of how good the golden years can be. She says a senior volunteer once said to her "I bet you see a lot of us die."

"No," she replied. "I see a lot of you living."

A Life Well Lived
Johnny Manfrin, 81

At 81, Johnny Manfrin knows how to enjoy himself. He's led a fascinating life and considers himself a very lucky man.

Johnny first came to the US as a prisoner of war. He was a soldier in the Italian army captured while serving in Africa. He was shipped with about 800 other Italian POWs to Jackson Barracks, where local Italian families provided food and entertainment for their countrymen. It was here that Johnny met the woman who would later become his wife.

At the war's end, Johnny was sent back to Italy. He kept in touch with his girlfriend, who eventually moved to Naples where the two were married. They moved back to Louisiana, raised two daughters and lived the American dream. Johnny has no regrets when he looks back on his remarkable life.

"Every day has turned out to be beautiful," he says. "I'm a lucky man."

And Johnny shows no signs of slowing down. Today, he spends his time doing the things he enjoys. He belongs to an Italian men's club and plays competitive bocce three evenings a week. Afternoons you'll find him at his favorite casino playing a hand of poker.

A Generous Spirit
BJ Corcoran, 80

BJ Corcoran doesn't mind telling you that she's 80 years old. In fact, she's proud of it. And she should be - BJ has more energy and enthusiasm than many people half her age.

Soon after retiring in 1978, BJ began volunteering at East Jefferson General. Today, she volunteers three days per week in the Same Day Surgery unit, a busy environment that is perfectly suited to BJ's high energy level and talent for making people feel at ease. In addition, one Saturday each month BJ is the coordinator and cheerleader for the pet therapy program, in which specially trained handlers and their animals visit patients on the hospital's rehabilitation units. As if that's not enough, she's also the treasurer and past president of the hospital's Auxiliary, a member of the Community Action Council, a member of the Metairie Women's Club, and an active participant in the Self Help for Hard of Hearing support group.

Why does she spend so much time helping others? "I love to be around people and I like being busy," she says. "Every day, before I walk through the hospital doors, I say a prayer that there will be someone I can help."

Given the countless lives BJ has touched in so many ways, it seems her prayers have been answered.

Soldiering On
Frank Tuttle, 83

Since the anniversary of D-Day in 2000, Frank Tuttle has shared his experiences with adults and children from all over the world. As a World War II veteran and a volunteer at the National D-Day Museum, Frank is happy to talk about his time as a technical sergeant with the US Marine Corp.

Frank enlisted in the Marine Corp the day after the attacks on Pearl Harbor and became a gunner on dive-bombers stationed in the Solomon Islands and in the Philippines. He says he enjoyed his time in the military because it gave him the opportunity to see and do things he never dreamed of. Today he enjoys answering visitors' questions about his experiences and is pleased that so many people are interested.

When asked what he enjoys most about his volunteer work, Frank says he has met people from all over the world and has developed friendships with his fellow volunteer veterans. Does he think other seniors should volunteer?

"Anyone who can, should. You have to have something to do after you retire - you have to stay active," he says. "Besides, afternoon television is terrible!"

Enjoying Every Minute
Melrose L. Brewer, 72

For Melrose Brewer, laughter is the best medicine. "I like to laugh," she says. "I have fun; I enjoy everything I do."

Melrose was born and raised in the New Orleans area and has a close relationship with her three daughters and three grandchildren. She says spending time with them is what she enjoys most. "We do crazy things and have a lot of fun together," she says.

Melrose works part time as a licensed practical nurse in the field of occupational medicine. When she's not working, she's having fun. Whether she's working in her garden or traveling to her favorite beaches, you can be sure she's enjoying herself. And everyone around her is, too - Melrose's upbeat attitude and ever-present smile are very contagious.

As a native of the area, Melrose enjoys the things that make New Orleans unique, like Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras parades. She is also fond of sampling fine New Orleans cuisine. "I like to wine and dine," she says with a smile.