Living Vibrant Lives - The Makofsky Minute - Makofsky Valente Law Group, P.C.
Living Vibrant Lives

The month of May is National Older Americans Month. In celebration, we thought we would share a portion of a column recently written for the New York Times by Jane E. Brody. Ms. Brody, a regular columnist for the Times, is about to turn 80 years old. She teasingly calls 80 the new 60, and highlights the achievements of others in her age range who remain highly productive and contribute so much to society. Here is Ms. Brody’s list and descriptions:

“Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, [80] national infectious disease guru…sharp as a tack even under withering political fire.

Nancy Pelosi, 81, the House speaker, also stands up well against fierce opposition.

Anthony Hopkins, 83, Oscar winner for ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and a frequent nominee won again this year for ‘The Father.’

Morgan Freeman also 83, acts with a voice of distinction bested only by his formidable talent. He has four upcoming movies and a TV series.

Bernie Sanders, former presidential hopeful who will be 80 in September, remains a force to be reckoned with in the Senate.

Paul Simon, a month younger than Mr. Sanders, has won 12 Grammys as a singer and songwriter in a now six-decade career. He recently sold his songwriting catalog to Sony for around $250 million.”

Brody also points to Frank Gehry who is 92 and whose latest project is a sizable development in downtown Los Angeles. About the possibility of retirement Gehry is reported to have said, “What would I do? I enjoy this stuff.”

Brody follows up with what she considers the “secret of a happy vibrant old age: Strive to do what you love for as long as you can do it. If the vicissitudes of life or infirmities of age preclude a preferred activity, modify it or substitute another.”

Brody’s list of 80-somethings is quite impressive and there are so many other older public figures and ordinary older folk who are unsung in public, but heroes to their friends and family. These are people living their best lives. We celebrate these individuals and all older Americans this month of May!

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