Sophia Loren, actress and singer, once said, “There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.”
National Senior Citizens Day falls on August 21 every year. While this national day was created to support, honor and show appreciation to seniors, we’re taking it a step further by recognizing older adults who are living their life without limits! Whether that be through major accomplishments gaining national recognition, or staying active and socially engaged with others on a daily basis—we’re featuring some of our favorite senior stories.
Remember, it’s never too late to start living the life you’ve always wanted—no matter your age.
Shirley W
Shirley realized she wanted to make a change in her life when she was no longer able to walk up the steps in her home. When she was 76 years old, she did something about her mobility challenge and started working out. Today, at 80 years old, Shirley holds the national record for deadlifting in her age bracket with 255 pounds! Learn more about Shirley’s accomplishments through this New York Post video.
Floss H.
Floss, 78, stays busy by working part-time at a travel agency she’s worked at for over 20 years, as she’s not quite ready to retire—yet. In her spare time, Floss stays occupied by going to the gym for water aerobics and working out with her personal trainer as a guide. On Sundays, she goes to church and participates in a church group called “the huddle,” which she started for a group of widowers, like herself. Floss still lives in the comfort of her home, with her daughter.
Charles K.
Prior to finding a passion for powerlifting, Charles suffered from depression, addiction, and homelessness. Although he became blind due to glaucoma, that did not stop Charles from becoming a powerlifter Olympian and being acknowledged as the oldest blind powerlifter on the USA team. Charles is determined to compete nationally and internationally until he is 80 years old, as the sport has become a source of spiritual and emotional joy. Check out his advice to other older adults looking to enter a sport similar to powerlifting.
David N
Retired close to 10 years ago, David, 72, continues to stay busy through travel, exercise, volunteer work, and technology. David has a passion for helping others and giving back, as he’s completed 7 mission trips throughout the U.S. and South America. He’s also traveled with his wife on cruises, throughout Europe, and road tripped throughout the Grand Canyon. Instead of walking around his neighborhood, David likes to spice it up and practice karate to stay active. At home, he enjoys keeping up with his grandchildren, family, and friends through Facebook and on his smartphone.
Show Your Loved Ones How Much You Care
If there is an older adult in your life, let them know how much you care, not only on this special day—but every day. Below are different ways to participate in National Senior Citizens Day:
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Call an older family member you have not spoken to in a while. A simple check-in call, asking “how are you,” goes a long way in an older adult’s life.
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Put down the phone, and spend quality time with an older family member. Ask them about their past, lessons they’ve learned over the years, or take part in a special activity you both enjoy—board games, shopping, enjoying the fresh air and walking outside. Your presence can make someone’s day!
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Give the gift of protection and peace of mind with an in-home, on-the-go, or all-in-one wearable medical alert system. Worried about your loved one when you’re not around? Worry less knowing round-the-clock help is always just a simple button push away to a highly trained emergency operator with one of our six medical alert devices.
