“May God bless and keep you always
May all your wishes all come through
May you always do for others
And let others do for you
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
May you stay forever young….”

Bob Dylan, “Forever Young”

In 2020, there were 53.7 million people over 65 in the U.S. In 2050, there will be 82 million over 65. Aging is the process of becoming older. There is an age-dependent decline in physiological function leading to physical and cognitive impairments and mortality. Healthy aging is maintaining optimal functioning in older age.

Physical changes include increasing thinness of skin and neoplasms. The cardiovascular reserves slow down with an increasing probability of heart attack and stroke. Fear of falling and restriction of activities occur. There is disruption of sleep with frequent awakenings and daytime sleepiness. Loss of vision and hearing are common.

Memory diminishes with age, including routine activities like losing one’s keys and more vulnerability to scams and false beliefs. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is defined as one or more cognitive domains that do not interfere with daily function. MCI is a precursor to dementia and Alzheimer’s, affecting memory, language and judgment. Medical conditions, including hypertension, need to be investigated as causes for cognitive decline. Biomarkers, radiological and psychological testing can evaluate someone with memory loss or behavioral changes.

Contributions to the process of aging include processed foods and carbohydrates, alcohol, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and stress.

How can an aging person promote wellbeing? Both aerobic and resistive exercises can improve bone health, reduce falls and maintain cognitive function. Exercise can also reduce depression and anxiety. Other healthy activities include walking with others, checking in on neighbors, taking classes online, learning technology, and volunteering. Spiritual growth, by participating in faith-based activities, leads to a feeling of community. There is a healing power of laughter to decrease anger, frustration and conflicts. Follow the guidance of physicians and check labels to control the amount of salt and carbohydrates in foods. Pay attention to alcohol intake. Vitamins and supplements should be monitored by one’s physician. In addition to healthy activities, meditation, tai chi, and pilates can reduce stress and increase wellbeing. So is organizing chores that need to be accomplished on a daily basis.

Ageism is defined as stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination on the basis of age. It is an assumption of medical impairment, loss of worth to society, and lack of respect. What can be done to counter ageism? We need to encourage meaningful relationships, intergenerational contact and engage in community service.

The hallmark of resilience includes recovery to a state of balanced and sustained purpose, moving forward, and continued growth. Resilience leads to optimism and personal coping skills, such as flexibility and adaptability in meaningful relationships. Resilience serves to adapt well to adversity and trauma. Psychological resilience is associated with better health later in life. Resilience includes a supportive social network and affiliation of family and friends. Retirement and worklessness should be followed by new initiatives in learning, volunteering and family connections.

The Hebrew word for “elder” is zaken. It is an acronym for one who acquires wisdom where learning is lifelong. It is a common Torah blessing to wish someone a life of 120 years. Judaism teaches us to be resilient, productive and contribute to our communities. We hope we can set an example for the next generation to promote health and wellbeing.

Victor and Steven are friends and members of Park Avenue Synagogue. Steven has been a professor of neurology for four decades. His specialties have included traumatic brain injury, voice disorders and disability medicine. He continues to teach medical students, health care providers and the public, and he writes medical guidelines. He is committed to Jewish learning and Tikkun Olam, inclusion for all those with special needs. He enjoys time with his family, travel, music and sports. As he ages, he continues lifelong learning and the commitment to social justice and the Jewish community.

Victor is a septuagenarian academic, active all his life, as a skier for 57 years on four continents, extended trips to Antarctica and the Arctic, and seven years living in Israel. Victor’s father was a first generation American, grew up during the depression, and spent his career in the family printing business. His orthodox Jewish mother, a descendant of German immigrants who first arrived in the US about 1820, passed on the family traditions and values. He continues to lead an active and healthy life, participating in various charities, community service, Jewish ethics, contemporary Jewish thought, and social justice.

“When the autumn weather, Turns leaves to flame
One has not got time, For the waiting game
Oh, the days dwindle down to a precious few, September, November
And these few precious days, I will spend with you”

Frank Sinatra, “September Song”

Steven Mandel MD
Clinical Professor of Neurology
Adjunct Clinical Professor of Medicine
New York Medical College

Victor Goldsmith PhD
Professor Emeritus, Pace University; and Emeritus Fellow, International Honors Center of Italian Universities
Formerly, Associate Provost for Research, Pace University; and Professor of Geography, Haifa University

Edited by Heidi Mandel PhD DPM LMSW