Page 198 - Mind Games The Aging Brain and How to Keep it Healthy

182 • Chapter 6

without using a cane! The increased muscle strength facili-
tated moving from sitting to standing and climbing stairs.
Also, incidences of falling when moving from a chair were
reduced. After the initial training period, the elders retained
the results of the training with only one lifting session a
week. If weight lifting can so drastically improve the condi-
tion of institutionalized adults in their nineties, imagine what
it can do for you!
Amazingly, in the age group of older seniors, only 5 per-
cent of men and 1 percent of women participate in weight
training. 14 Perhaps few people try weight lifting because
they are not aware of the benefits and the ease of getting
started. You do not have to go to a gym.

Photo courtesy of Henry Ortega

Older and Wiser

Virginia Chestnut has had an adventurous three years. Three
years ago at 78 years of age, she sold the family home, moved into
a house in the country that she designed herself, and has since had
several operations to clear blocked arteries. And despite the
changes (or perhaps because of all the new experiences), you will
never meet a more determined, full-of-life senior!