Happy Older Americans Month from MVES!

Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) joins the Administration on Aging (AoA) and communities around the country in wishing a happy Older Americans Month to elders in this area and beyond! Older Americans Month, celebrated every May, provides an opportunity to honor the legacies and ongoing contributions of older citizens in our country.

The 2010 theme for Older Americans Month is "Age Strong! Live Long!" which recognizes the diversity and vitality of today's older Americans and their contributions to society. Older adults are living longer and are staying more active today. And, as this population grows, the contributions elders are making in their communities through civic and volunteer opportunities are becoming more significant than ever!

Did you know that…?

• America's senior population is expected to reach 71.5 million by 2030!
• Over 215 volunteers over the age of 60 contributed 24,502 hours of service to MVES last year!
• One of MVES’ Home-Delivered Meals Drivers truly embodies the “Age Strong, Live Long,” model that we’re celebrating this month. Here’s his story:

Paul Foti, an MVES Home-Delivered Meals Driver, believes in the adage, “You’re only as old as you feel,” but has trouble pinpointing the exact age that he feels. “I’m not 60 or 65 anymore,” said Foti. “But, I feel pretty good!” he adds quickly, with a smile.

But a casual observer might guess that Foti is 60 or 65. He is healthy, keeps in shape, works hard, stays active, and looks great! At 81, he’s a picture of aging well.

If working hard is the key to staying young, then it’s no wonder that Foti is aging well. He is a worker by nature and has been all his life. It’s his tendency to keep working and keep moving that he says keeps him youthful. “I’ve always said that if you shut your motor off, it might not turn back on!” said Foti.

Foti has been happily delivering meals to homebound elders for 10 years as an MVES Home-Delivered Meals Driver. He has become very friendly with the home-delivered meals clients on his delivery route, many of whom are younger than Foti. “They seem happy to see me, which makes me feel good,” said Foti. “I love working with the public.”

When he’s not working to make a living, he’s working out to stay physically fit. Foti frequents a local fitness center three times a week. He lifts weights and rides the stationary bike, but avoids using the gym machines that simulate walking. “I don’t use the treadmill because I do enough walking when I’m delivering meals,” he said. “Up and down all those stairs!”

Foti says he doesn’t feel exhausted at the end of a work day, like one might expect of someone even younger than him. “I may feel a little pain here or there, but I don’t give up,” he said. He acknowledges that he feels fortunate that he remains healthy, active, and able to work at his age. “I think we are all blessed in our own way,” Foti said humbly.

Foti is quick to respond when he is asked if he plans to deliver meals for another 10 years. “Yes, as long as I’m able!” Foti said enthusiastically. “Ha! Wouldn’t that be something?” It would be something, but for those who know Foti and his hard-working personality, it wouldn’t be too surprising.

Happy Older Americans Month to Foti and all area elders! Thank you for your contributions. Keep on aging strong and living long!