By: Dr. Rich Bimler – Ambassador of Health, Hope, and Aging at Lutheran Life Communities

A recent study by a neurology research group confirms the value that all types of physical activities have on reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Washing the dishes, cooking, cleaning, walking, aerobics, and golfing are all great examples.

The Mayo Clinic confirms this study with their own research, which adds that a combination of moderate exercise, as well as mental stimulation through computer use can also reduce memory loss.

To some, these results may be stating the obvious, but they do reinforce the fact that for us older adults, keeping active in body, mind, and spirit adds quality and value to the aging process.  These are encouraging words for all of us.

The number of older adults using the computer, e-mail, Facebook, and even texting, continues to increase. As a matter of fact, the age segment of people over 75 has the largest percentage of new computer users in the U.S. This is most certainly an encouraging sign as long as we mix our “sitting time” at the computer with more energizing activities.

Blending physical activities and mental exercises allows us to “Live Brightly!” It does not mean that our aches and pains will vanish and we will “live happily ever after,” but it does mean that we will be able to live a life more abundantly in the Lord …and have more fun doing it. It also means that we can become more aware of the brightness in life each day, and become more alive as we share this brightness with others.

The new Lutheran Life Community being developed in the Lely Resort area of Naples, will provide a marvelous mix of mind, body, and spirit living! The Arlington of Naples will empower vibrant, grace-filled living across all generations by providing multitudes of choices for the residents, as well as for visiting family and friends.

Enjoy the brightness of living lively in the Lord, each and every day. And even if you don’t like washing the dishes, go out and wash someone’s dog, or do the windows, or take a hike. As a matter of fact, perhaps the best exercise of all is to walk daily…. with the Lord!  He’s right there with you, raring to go!