IT’S NEVER TOO LATE

By Akila Gibbs

It’s never too late to begin – and continue – the habits that can keep adults 50 and older active and healthy. Exercise and physical activity, such as walking, swimming, games and sports, gardening, dancing and more are the keys to a long and healthy life.

These and other activities brighten the lives of older adults, contribute to stronger muscles and bones, improve mental and emotional health, sharpen the mind and cognitive function, reduce the risk of chronic disease, make or expand social connections and contribute to a sense of progress and accomplishment.

If you count yourself among this age group and have become more sedentary, especially as a result of COVID isolation, depression or lack of motivation, you are not alone, whether you are in your 50s or 90+.

The Pasadena Senior Games are a perfect example of the wide age range of activities for older adults in today’s world. This year is the 30^th anniversary of the games, which began in May and will continue through mid-July. Some of the athletes are experienced competitors in their chosen sports and others have no experience at all. Everyone is welcome.

Each of the nearly 20 different athletic competitions, from archery to track and field, is organized in age divisions with medals awarded at each level. Last year at the Pasadena Senior Games, Diana Charles took first place in the 50-yard women’s freestyle swimming competition in the 50-to-59-year-old division and Alan Rosen won the men’s shotput contest in the 85-to-89-year-old division. 

You may be surprised to learn that one competitor this year in various swimming competitions, Maureen Kornfeld, is 101 years old and received four gold medals. She says the one thing that keeps her going is leading a healthy and active lifestyle.

The remaining competitions in the 2023 Pasadena Senior Games are disc golf on June 24, pickleball on June 24 and 25, table tennis on July 15 and women’s softball on July 15 and 16. Anyone 50 and older can register as late as the day of each competition. Spectators are welcome at each competition at no charge.

I encourage anyone who has not done so already to register for any or all of these events or learn more about them by visiting www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org and clicking on Activities & Events, then Senior Games. You can also call 626-795-4331 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

I want to remind everyone that the annual Pasadena Senior Center’s free, fun and informative #AgeWell Day is scheduled Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

There will be something for everyone, including the latest about medical marijuana and CBD oil, arts and culture activities, blood pressure and glucose screenings, wellness information and resources, how to make the most of your smartphone, movement activities such as line dancing and yoga, fitness center orientation, a keynote presentation titled “How to Age Well” by Dr. Laura Mosqueda, professor of family medicine and geriatrics at USC’s Keck School of Medicine, plus live entertainment, complimentary buffet lunch and more.

To register for #AgeWell Day or for more information, please visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org and click on Activities & Events, then Special Events or call (626) 795-4331.

Remember, it’s never too late to improve your physical health!

Akila Gibbs is the executive director of the Pasadena Senior Center.