Many of us belong to a generation known as the “Baby Boomers”—born shortly after World War II and now in our 50s and beyond. With the demands and stress of modern life, the question we often ask ourselves is: How can we live long, productive, and fulfilling lives? Surely, after years of hard work, we deserve the time and space to relax and enjoy the fruits of our labour.

Experts in the field of aging—gerontologists—tell us there’s an important difference between chronological age (how many years we’ve lived) and biological age (the condition of our bodies and minds). Dr. Edward Bortz, author of Creative Aging, points out that some people in their eighties may have the biological health of someone in their thirties. According to him, the key to maintaining optimal health lies in following a few simple yet powerful habits.

Here are Ten Commandments for Healthy and Sensible Living:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet
   As we age, our bodies require less fat and more protein, vitamins, and minerals. Choose foods that nourish and sustain you.
2. Support Natural Elimination
   Keep your body clean and functioning well by promoting waste elimination—deep breathing and hydration help.
3. Get Adequate Rest
   Both your mind and body need sufficient rest to repair, recharge, and thrive.
4. Make Time for Recreation
   Stay active. Physical activity boosts metabolism, strength, flexibility, and agility. Engage in something enjoyable every day.
5. Laugh Often
   Humour is a powerful stress reliever. Look for the joy and laughter in life—it’s good medicine.
6. Manage Emotional Stress
   Avoid carrying emotional burdens like jealousy, anger, and resentment. When faced with stress, try to alter, avoid, or adjust to the situation. Emotional well-being is closely tied to physical health.
7. Value Positive Relationships
   Surround yourself with people who care for and respect you. Any form of abuse—physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual—has no place in your life.
8. Keep Your Mind Engaged
   The brain thrives on activity. Stay curious. Keep reading, learning, and contributing. Your wisdom and experience are valuable. Meaningful work, even in retirement, can add purpose to your life.
9. Be Socially Involved
   Connect with your community. Volunteer, pursue hobbies, or join groups that match your interests.
10. Cultivate a Healthy Mindset
    Successful aging is rooted in your attitude. Keep an open mind, embrace new experiences, and stay excited about life. Who wants to be boring?

So Where Do You Begin?

Start by taking inventory of your interests, strengths, and needs:

• What hobbies or recreational activities do you enjoy?
• What areas of self-improvement interest you?
• What aspects of work give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment?
• What skills do you have that you’d like to keep using?

As you think about retirement or later years, ask yourself how you can stay engaged and fulfilled. Identify your personal goals and prepare accordingly. While your needs may remain the same, your ability to meet them independently might change. Planning now helps ensure balance and well-being later on.

Your essential needs include:

• A safe, comfortable place to live
• A nutritious, balanced diet
• Adequate income
• Opportunities for recreation and growth
• Close relationships with family and friends
• A sense of purpose, meaning, and spiritual well-being

Final Thoughts for Fellow Boomers

Let go of the number on your birth certificate and focus instead on how you feel. Stay active in work, meaningful service, and fun. Live with intention, joy, and gratitude. Above all, give thanks every day—for the gift of life and the opportunities that still lie ahead.