In recent years, scientists have found that many of the physical changes that used to be associated with aging are actually related to inactivity.

There are two keys to fitness in the older adult years. The first rule is to do something you like, or can at least tolerate. The second is to start low and go slow. Physical activity 30 minutes a day, will yield many health benefits.

Mental activity is as important as physical activity. Try different activities. If you always do something verbal, like a crossword puzzle, try something visual instead, like a jigsaw. How long is it since you tried to do math in your head, or got a book of those logic puzzles? Keep yourself sharp with a variety of activities.

Keep in touch with people and get exposed to a variety of viewpoints. Clubs, religious organizations, classes, or volunteer or part-time work can all do this for you. It's all right to sit in that rocking chair at the end of the day, after a long active day. That's when you can really enjoy it.

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