Midwest Mary

Wine gets better with age. Do we, as well?

In some ways, this is possible. As I recently learned first-hand, the number of years we’ve lived is not indicative of our health for the remainder of our lives.

I had two serious illnesses over the last dozen years that are now resolved, for the most part, which has improved my health tremendously. I also believe my health will continue to improve. I’m healthier and stronger now than I was ten years ago.

Some of this is due to the distance I now have from intense caregiving and more time to care for my own health. The rest is due to medical intervention with treatment and surgery, as described in my last post.

My point is, don’t give up or think that your health will only decline through the years. With effort and perseverance, you can become stronger, healthier, and happier.

Following is an excerpt from my book, Young in the Spirit. Spiritual Strengthening for Seniors and Caregivers. Check out this book for keys to longevity and ways to improve your health at any age.

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“Typically, older people are understood to be no longer attractive and feeble in mind and body. Seniors need care and cannot provide it themselves. This line of thinking disregards the fact that, as with all ages, there are many ways to be old. There is a wide range of capabilities among people in the ’65 and older’ category.

One’s age is not indicative of their ability. An 80-year-old may continue working productively while someone in her 70s needs assistance bathing and walking short distances. Variances also occur throughout one’s senior years. An individual may have several years that require significant support and others that are rich in strength and ability. And those periods of need versus independence may not come in any particular order.

In fact, a good number of today’s seniors are quite active. Many are working part or full-time or participating in regularly scheduled athletic activities such as golf, dance, and swimming. They take good care of themselves and are fully aware of the need to maintain a nutritious diet and seek medical attention when necessary. They are also exposed to health education classes at local hospitals, community colleges, and public libraries.”

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Photo: Cantigny Park, 7/2023

©Mary K. Doyle, 2026

**ACTA Publications is currently offering my book, Tranquility Transformation Transcendence, at a special price of $10. This is a beautiful book to bring to a hostess, someone who is not feeling well, or add to a gift package with a little plant or pretty dish towels.