William Penn Life, 2015 (50. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
2015-09-01 / 9. szám
Aging Well with Cathy Graham A big belly can be a sign of big trouble RECENTLY, I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY to chat with a lovely couple in their late 60's about health in general. The two thought of themselves as active and energetic, that was until they took a vacation trip with their children and grandchildren. Frieda told me she was surprised at how quickly she became out of breath when hiking with her grandchildren. "Hiking?" I asked with great interest. "Grand Canyon by any chance?" "No," she chuckled, "more like the woods at the campsite." Her point was well taken. She was quick to recognize that a one-mile walk on a modest incline should not have left her winded. I supported her theory that a more focused kind of strength and exercise program was in order. Herb, her husband of 42 years, was not so eager to jump on the exercise band wagon. Based on my years of experience, I recognized in him a clear-cut case of reluctance to physical exercise. I could tell that Herb was in my presence against his will. I am not sure if Frieda threatened him, but I am betting there were some hefty heel marks left by his digging in. Herb is a tall, likable character with an easy smile and ornery eyes. He proudly chimed that his weight had remained exactly the same since his high school graduation. Had I only seen Herb from the back, I may have bought his story. True, Herb had a slender build and sported good posture. But, his belly could be likened to that of a very pregnant woman about a week past her due date. Big, round bellies on willowy frames do not equate to a model for good health. Some men who are less active later in life acquire round bellies and lose muscle in their legs, thus their weight does not change. But, more important than weight is the size of the belly. Call it what you will—a beer belly, pap's papoose or a food belly—it's not something you want. Your waist measurement becomes more of a significant health indicator than total weight. If you know a man who has a belly that protrudes over the belt so that his pants are under the girth, he is a sure target for health complications. Fellows, you can be wearing the same trousers for a lot of years and try to buffalo yourselves into believing that basketball out front is nothing to worry about, but it is. Run, don't walk, to your family doctor. Be concerned, and be a good listener. It just may save your life. Cathy Graham is director of the Graceful Aging Wellness Center at Bethlen Communities in Ligonier, Pa. Show your WPA pride! We recently received a new shipment of our popular Lands’ End® brand, 100% cotton, short-sleeved polo shirts featuring an embroidered William Penn Association logo. These are the same comfortable shirts worn by volunteers at various WPA events. The men’s shirt features a two-button placket, and the women’s shirt features a four-button placket. Available in charcoal heather grey only, while supplies last. Name:________________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________ City:_____________________________State:___________Zip:_____________ Email:_________________________________________________________________ Size (Circle One): Mens S M L XL XXL Womens S M L XL XXL Make check payable to "William Penn Association” Mail form & check to: Shirt Offer, William Penn Association, 709 Brighton Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15233 William Penn Life ° September 2015 0 3
