Coping with change is difficult, no matter how old you are. The particular challenge for older adults is the sheer number of changes and transitions that start to occur — including children moving away, the loss of parents, friends, and other loved ones, changes to or the end of your career, declining health, and even loss of independence. It’s natural to feel those losses. But if that sense of loss is balanced with positive ingredients, you have a formula for staying healthy as you age and LIVING AN EVEN BETTER LIFE

Why not YAHOO? The kids have left!! Yipee, you no longer have the overwhelming stress of your full-time job on your shoulders. WOW, you have lots of time on your hand to explore your passion.

Healthy aging means continually reinventing yourself as you pass through landmark ages such as 60, 70, 80 and beyond. It means finding new things you enjoy, learning to adapt to change, staying physically and socially active, and feeling connected to your community and loved ones.

Unfortunately, for many of us, aging also brings anxiety and fear. How will I take care of myself late in life? What if I lose my spouse? What is going to happen to my mind? However, many of these fears often stem from popular misconceptions about aging. The truth is that you are stronger and more resilient than you may realize.

Just the same as at any age, how you deal with what comes your way is totally up to you. Here are a few ideas that make for a good life — no matter your age.

Focus on the things you’re grateful for. When you stop taking things for granted, you appreciate and enjoy what you have even more.

Accept the things you can’t change. Many things in life are beyond our control. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things you can control, such as the way you choose to react to problems. Face your limitations with dignity and a healthy dose of humor.

Remember; this is not a time to stop moving forward. Later life can be a time of exciting new adventures if you let it.

Stay connected. It’s not always easy as children move away and friends die, but make a concentrated effort to reach out and connect with at least one person each day.

Finally, exercise, eat right, and take care of yourself. – BONITA GOOCH, editor and chief – THE COMMUNITY VOICE

Meet Our Active Seniors

For this issue, we interviewed four very active and healthy seniors who are living their better life. From age 80- to 100-years-young, these individuals share their secrets for a long, full and healthy life.

Aulene Ray, 99 – Last year, at age 98, Aulene finally retired.

Archie Welch, 80 – Active politically in his 20s, now he’s helping veterans.

Sharon Ingram, 80s – Music has always been her passion, and she’ll never let it go.

Joanne Collins, 85 – Another busy beaver who gives back, says find time for yourself.