Dow Retiree - Doug Taylor

I have always enjoyed being physically active, whether for pleasure (skiing, sailing), fitness (walking, biking, strength training) or chores (yard work, snow shoveling). I walk about 3 miles daily and work out in a gym 2 to 3 times a week. My morning routine of stretches, knee bends and push-ups helps prevent the occasional lower back problem and sciatica that I had been experiencing, and gets me “limbered up” without undue sweating.

In 2004 I suffered a knee injury that kept me off snow skis for a year, but I worked hard and got back on the slopes. In December 2006 I received a pacemaker, and my physician set the maximum heart rate at 110 beats per minute. When I realized that 110 bpm was too low to allow me to exercise at my usual pace, I talked to my physician about it, and he agreed to raise the upper limit so that I could return to my usual activities. In January 2011, at age 84, I earned a gold medal in a NASTAR ski race.

Eating, of course, is one of the pleasures of existence. Fortunately my appetite has lessened with age, and vegetables and fruit have become more attractive while I desire less meat. I have read that wine supports cardiac health, a delightful addition to its recognized value in attitude adjustment, and so I determinedly follow the prescription.

I stay socially active through membership in various organizations. Our Greenwich Retired Men's Association meets weekly, and often hosts presentations from speakers such as authors, business leaders, and government representatives. I volunteer as a director of The Mews, a home for senior citizens, and am treasurer and a director of Meals on Wheels. Our neighborhood “Wine Tasters” meet monthly to sample new vintages and enjoy a delightful time together. I stay mentally active by working crossword puzzles, attending the opera, and reading a wide range of literature.

To sum it up, I follow the Greek philosophy of "Moderation in all things" and the advice of an old MD friend who said "Listen to your body." Although I’ve encountered some obstacles along the way, I remain committed to being active – physically, mentally, and socially.