Gerontologist Donald Murphy says that people over 65 who feel good and have no symptoms of illness may be spending too much time in doctors' offices. If seniors are feeling healthy, according to Dr. Murphy, they'll benefit more from exercising and enjoying life than from expensive and time-consuming health screens.
Here are some of his tips for staying healthy in old age:
- Pray and reach out to others. These do more to lower health risks than reducing cholesterol or taking other medical options.
- Spend time with friends.
- Share your talents with someone less fortunate. Volunteers are less likely to be depressed.
That's helpful advice. But as believers we have this wonderful promise from the Lord: "Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the Lord is upright" (Ps. 92:13-14).
To be among the fellowship of those who are "fresh and flourishing," I need to cultivate my relationship with the Lord and keep telling others about Him. What a great plan for seniors--and for those of any age! — David C. McCasland
O God, don't let my heart grow cold
As time flies by and I grow old,
For souls are dying, lost in sin;
Help me in love to bring them in. --Anon.
A fruitful life is a happy life.