Medical Alert: Seniors learn how to boost immune system, improve lives.

RESOURCES — Articles:
Seniors learn how to boost immune system, improve lives

By Nancy Needham
Health & Wellness, September 21, 2006

About 100 seniors interested in learning how to improve their lives, boost their immune systems and stay independent gathered at the Hyatt Westlake Plaza recently to hear Dr. Roger Landry, former physician to astronauts and pilots.

Landry, a retired colonel who served as a flight surgeon in the U. S. Air Force, spoke to the seniors about health concerns brought on by living alone and not interacting with others.

"Over the past 50 years, we've seen a substantial decrease in the number of older Americans who are involved in some type of activity within their community," said Landry.

Seniors who are a part of a community suffer less illness, with half the number of colds, incidence of cancer, heart disease and dementia as seniors who live alone, he said.

"As we age we become more isolated, especially if we continue to live in our own homes," said Landry. "Spouses die and friends develop heath challenges or move closer to their children, leaving a senior alone in their homes." Just belonging to a club, church or charity organization can substantially reduce their risk of serious health problems, he said.

"Seniors need to live in an environment where they feel connected, stimulated to grow and challenged on a daily basis," said Landry.

As the seniors munched on a breakfast of muffins, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage and cheese blintzes, Landry advised them to keep active and keep challenging their minds.
"Use it or lose it," he said.

Landry emphasized the importance of learning something new every day, being physically active for 30 minutes a day and reaching out to others. He also told them to never act their age. While they were acting younger, he said, it would also be good for them to have young role models.

"Be where children are," said Landry. "Have children in your life."
That doesn't mean they always have to be surrounded by children, he said.
"I'm one of those grandparents who are as happy to see them go home as I am to see them arrive."

When the audience laughed at his joke, Landry used their laughter to emphasize another point.
"Laugh. Laugh a lot-it boosts your immune system," he said.

It's also important to be optimistic and confident when dealing with life's curves, said Landry.

One of those in the audience was John Shields of Westlake Village, former CEO of Trader Joe's, who agreed it's important to stay positive.
"The whole idea is that you are in a lot more control of your life and health than you think you are, so stay active and keep your brain working," said Shields.

Dorothy Rosengard a 32-year resident of Westlake Village, came to the seminar because she hoped it would give her more specific ideas of new ways she could volunteer in her community, she said. She already volunteers her time to nonprofit organizations like Meals on Wheels.
"I like to stay active and there's lots to do in our community," Rosengard said.