HOW DO WE LIVE LONGER AND BETTER?
Do you want to live to 100 or beyond? I do - if I have a reason for being here and good health. Susan Pinker, psychologist, gave a recent Ted Talk referring to research by Juliana Holt-Lunstad at Brigham Young University. The seven year study included thousands of middle aged people who demonstrated characteristics of longevity.
The predictors might be different than you would expect. Yes, exercise and diet were on the list, but the most important factors were relationships. High on the list was connection to folks you are close to; ones who you can ask for help or their opinion. They might be there to help you financially in a pinch, take you to the doctor or be a sounding board. Maybe they are just with you during a difficult time.
However, the top item was “social integration”. That characteristic referred to interaction with those people you see every or meet every day. It might be the postman, teller at your bank, grocery clerk, neighbor, people at work or groups. These are not people you are close to, but connect you to the world at large. That need to reach out and find purpose in life was demonstrated by those attending our January Geezer Forum “Stay Connected and Involved - Volunteering and Employment”
Of course, people have different levels of interaction that they seek at different times. Even if you consider yourself an introvert, there are many ways you can connect with other people. It does not mean you have to interact constantly or be a “joiner” if that is not your style.
The number of volunteer opportunities in our community is amazing and sometimes surprising. Speakers at the Forum shared opportunities and offered training. Here is a list of some organizations that could help you connect and live a longer, happier, more fulfilling life.
-American Red Cross - Local, national and international disaster relief. I didn't know you can volunteer from home to help remotely.
-Newby-ginnings serves over 7400 veteran families with opportunities to work in the thriftshop or simply have conversations with veterans.
-Community Cakes Baking provides cakes so no one goes without a cake on their birthday. They partner with American Legion, assisted living facilities and St Vincent de Paul to name a few.
-American Legion can use help in the kitchen, serving meals, office and special projects.
-Hospice of North Idaho has opportunities to be a companion, work in the garden or assist in the kitchen.
-Easter Seals. I did not know about their lCSEP program for seniors 55+ which provides job training, with up to 4 yrs of assistance to get back to work and develop job skills. They work with the Department of Labor for job placement.
-Area Agency on Aging - a variety of programs and services that can provide volunteer opportunities and address transportation needs which is a big issue for local seniors.
-In Good Company Respite. This volunteer program provides social engagement and enrichment activities for those receiving care at home, while offering a break and support resources for their caregivers.
Previous Geezer Forum articles and download “Travel Tips and Tricks for Seniors” are now available for download at virginiataft.com and are sent to our email list which you can join at geezerforumcda@gmail.com Check out our Facebook group page Geezer Forum CDA. Our next Forum is “Organize Your Life - Senior Friendly Resources and More”
Virginia Taft can be reached at virginiataftauthor@gmail.com
Taft is the author of “The Memory Box Journey - Capturing a Life Story”
(Dream Seed Rising 2024) available on Amazon; audiobook on ACX.
