| A Letter from Director Mark Skeie Dear VAN participants, Once upon a time: It was once quoted to me, “The single most untapped resource we have in our country are people over 65 years old.” Some of us look at the later one-third of our lives as a time of adventure and travel; others spend their days volunteering in an effort to contribute to community and family. Then, there is another segment of the senior population, watching the days pass–bored as hell and often complaining loudly. Here’s another quote: “We are given a gift every day – 24 hours.” How we spend them is up us. Numerous studies over the years have shown that a positive attitude is a key contributor to how long we will live, and how happy will these years be for us. These same studies have shown that being active can add, on average, 7.5 years to our lives life and reduce healthcare costs as well. Now that we are confronted with the pandemic, what to do with our time can be especially difficult. But we know you can find solutions. Volunteers are needed more than ever. Stay connected by establishing a phone network with your family, neighbors, past co-workers. Many non-profits such as AARP, MAAA and others have eLearning opportunities from exercising to healthy eating. Check them out! (See information about the Juniper Program later in this newsletter.) And, be sure to watch for information from the Vital Aging Network about an on-line version of it’s Aging with Gusto series. The planning team has been working hard to create a three-session series which is particularly pertinent during this COVID era, and it will soon be ready for your participation. Create a plan. Identify where your interests are. Do not let someone else dictate where to spend that precious commodity: Your Time!The choices are yours! Stay Healthy, Stay Involved. Thank you |
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| Mark Skeie, Executive Director |
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