Welcome to the Defying Age Spotlight. This segment will introduce you to everyday people who age well!
These amazing individuals will inspire you! About 25% of Aging is genetics. The rest is up to you!
Read on to learn about Margaret, and her advice to age well!
About Margaret
Margaret married her high school sweetheart, Billy, who she met at age 15. She currently lives independently in the house they built together.
Margaret was a Stay at Home Mom for several years to her 5 children. She returned to the workforce and retired from her role as “Deputy for the Recorder of Deeds” at age 62.
Margaret was a caregiver to her husband Billy for 10 years after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. She says “we almost made it to our 68th wedding anniversary”. Bill sadly passed away in 2019.
Age well with family support
Margaret has a supportive family, most of whom live near her. Her oldest son Mark passed away at age 51, which she describes as a particularly difficult time in her life.
It is clear she is very proud of all of her children. Her youngest son Danny recovered from a brain tumor, which required two major surgeries as a teenager.
Margaret’s son Danny and her two daughters, Cathy and Christy, live close by. They are a big part of her support system. David, her middle son, lives in Florida.
Margaret has also been blessed with several grandchildren, and great grandchildren!
Age well with activities & friendships
In her spare time Margaret spends time with family, keeps up her house (which is pristine, and recently remodeled), and enjoys doing crossword puzzles.
Margaret continues to drive, although she tends to stay close to home these days.
She has four close friends, all in their early 90’s. They still get together to play cards once a month, something they have done since 1953!
What motivates you to live a healthy lifestyle?
I guess I don’t really think much about it. Being active is just a part of who I am. My husband and I always exercised together, and played golf with friends.
I think you have to keep moving, especially at my age! You have to take care of yourself if you want to age well.
What do you attribute to aging well?
- Having a positive mindset. I live in the moment and take one day at a time. I have a very strong faith in God. My faith has been a constant in my life, through good times and bad. I would also describe myself as a mentally strong person.
- Staying Active. I have always been very active. After retirement, my husband and I worked out at the YMCA and golfed 2-3 times per week.
- Eating well. My diet includes a lot of fruits and vegetables. My appetite has decreased, but I eat because it’s important. I cook a few times per week and freeze meals as needed. My children offer to bring me food, which I always take them up on!
What goals or hopes do you have for the future?
I would really like to get back to playing golf! I really enjoyed playing, and had to stop when my husband was too sick to stay alone.
My hope is also to maintain my level of activity and keep my house up.
What advice do you have for those looking to age well?
- Practice Patience. As you age, you have to slow down. Be patient with yourself and others!
- Take one day at a time. Life is not easy, and you have to take it as it comes. Try not to look back, and avoid looking too far ahead.
- Stay active. Just keep moving! You’ll be glad you did!
Are you Defying Age?
If you, or someone in your life, would like to be featured in the Defying Age Spotlight, send us an email!
We’d love to share your experience! Contact us at info@agedefyingdietitian.com.
Age well with more information from our blog.
Kathryn is a Registered Dietitian and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is also Certified through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Weight Management.