Tuesday, June 24,2025
Today’s inspiration is geared more toward Ashby Ponds’ Mindful Creators than Mindful Writers because, if I remember correctly, the age range of MWs is younger. But it never hurts to know things in advance to prepare for future health benefit. So here it goes:
By the age 85 and older, about a third of people have dementia. Prevention is the most powerful antidote to this illness. You can’t prevent something you cannot see and dementia is one such illness. It increases exponentially after age 65. The mental decline is linked to lifestyle: physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, social isolation, poor sleep, lack of mentally stimulating activities and misuse of alcohol. All opposites of the eight good habits we’ve been reading about and hopefully practicing.
Prevention should start early. Our Ashby Ponds community may be retired but it has not quit on life. We participate in activities that are joyful and stimulating. We stay engaged. We maintain a sense of purpose by continuing to learn, discover and complete tasks. We see our life as having meaning, a sense of purpose. This is active aging! In order to know the “reason for my being” or “purpose of my life,” you must first accept yourself as you are with all your wholesome as well as unwholesome attributes and habits. You have charted a weekly program of the eight disciplines: M & J, good sleep, nutritious meals, exercise, socializing, creative projects, reading and sense of purpose. These are essentials for mental well-being.
Whatever you find joyful and meaningful, go ahead and do it. The best person to guide you is you!
Lorraine
Madhu, Ashby Ponds sounds delightful! So happy that you have an engaging environment and friends to share it with. I just had a group of my Maryland book club friends down to visit. One lady is in her 70s. She had the joyful energy of a 5 year old. She went in the raft that we pulled behind our boat. She went kayaking, swimming, jet skiing… and was up for any task we did. She is amazing! Good sleep is the one task that I must work on. You made my day (and kicked up my motivation) telling about Ashby Ponds! Thanks.
Jennifer D. Diamond
Good morning, Madhu and Lorraine! I LOVE these stories and tips. As my parents both died quite young in their early 60s, I’d love to change my genetics and wait a bit longer before reuniting with them! Thank you!
Madhu B. Wangu
That lady would fit right in at Ashby Ponds! The age range here is 65-90, a few are even in their late 90’s. Most live an active vibrant life. Come visit us sometime. I’d love you to attend our Mindful Creators Group that meets every Tuesday from 10:30 – 12:30. After the class we can have lunch with my husband.
Madhu B. Wangu
You’ll live into your 90’s, Jenn! Life style matters as much as genes. Come visit me sometime. As I wrote to Lorraine, I’d love you to attend my Mindful Creators Group that meets on Tuesdays from 10:30-12:30. Later, Manoj and I’d enjoy having lunch with you.
MARJORIE DEANGELIS
Hi, Madhu! Miss you so much! I also am trying to live longer than my parents! I am 79 now. My Dad died at 80 years, my Mom at 83. Both were in ill health for more than 5 years before their deaths, so already I am doing better and very thankful for it. Although I have back problems now and it limits my physical activity, I still garden, take photos of my garden and use them to interact with friends on FB and other platforms. I also keep in touch with several friends in other countries and cultures and feel this also helps to keep my brain active (and happy!) Also have several friends still who are over 90 years and they keep me amazed!! Also love to read and to do various puzzles and word searches.
Madhu B. Wangu
So good to see you here, Marjorie! I miss you too and, because I’m no longer on Facebook, I also miss watching your garden flourishing through several seasons! You add a decade or more to your life if you keep your body and mind active and socialize which you seem to be doing routinely. Glad to hear that you do whatever is possible for you to increase your longevity. Hope you visit more often!