National Senior Health & Fitness Day: Stay Active at Any Age

The SS United States: A Legendary Ocean Liners Final Chapter in Mobile, AlabamaFor decades, the SS United States was the pinnacle of American innovation, a sleek, steel-clad symbol of speed and luxury that ruled the high seas. Now, after years of uncertainty, this legendary ocean liner has found a temporary home in Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo preparations for its final transformationbecoming the worlds largest artificial reef.As of March 28, 2025, the ship sits docked at the Port of Mobile, a ghost of its former grandeur but still commanding awe. Its arrival has sparked excitement, nostalgia, and even a bit of controversy as preservationists scramble for a last-minute rescue. But love it or mourn it, the SS United States is embarking on its final journey, and Mobile is playing a crucial role in its farewell.The Glory Days: Speed, Luxury, and Hollywood FameLaunched in 1952, the SS United States also known as the Big U was an engineering marvel. Built in Newport News, Virginia, it was designed to be both a luxury ocean liner and a secret military asset, capable of transforming into a troop transport if needed with the ability to carry 14,000 troops 10,000 miles without refueling. On its maiden voyage, it shattered records, crossing the Atlantic in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutesa feat no other passenger ship has beaten to this day.For nearly two decades, it was the way to travel between the United States and Europe. Celebrities, dignitaries, and socialites graced its decks, reveling in its opulent design and unparalleled speed. Hollywood took notice, too. The ship made memorable appearances in films like Disneys 1962 classic Bon Voyage!, where it served as the glamorous setting for a family adventure, and 1955s Gentlemen Marry Brunettes, where its sleek profile played a starring role. Even in 2013, the thriller Dead Man Down used the SS United States for atmospheric shots while it was docked in Philadelphia.But the golden age of ocean liners was not meant to last. By 1969, the rise of jet travel rendered transatlantic crossings obsolete, and the SS United States was retiredmarking the beginning of a long, uncertain future.From Neglect to New PurposeFor decades, the once-proud liner sat idle in Philadelphia, rusting away as preservation efforts struggled to secure funding. Dreams of transforming it into a hotel, museum, or entertainment venue never materialized. Then, in 2024, a decision was made: Okaloosa County, Florida, would purchase the vessel and repurpose it as an artificial reefa $10 million project that would give the ship a new purpose beneath the waves of the Gulf of America.Thus began the ships 401st and final voyage. On February 19, 2025, it was towed 1,800 nautical miles from Philadelphia to Mobile, arriving ahead of schedule on March 3. Spectators lined the waterfront, watching as the once-glorious ocean liner, now a shell of its former self, was guided into port.A Temporary Stay in MobileNow docked at Modern American Recycling Services (MARS), the SS United States is undergoing extensive preparation before its submersion. Over the next six to twelve months, crews will strip the ship of non-metal materials, wiring, and hazardous components, ensuring it is environmentally safe. Holes will be carefully cut into the hull so that when it is finally submerged, it settles uprightproviding a thriving habitat for grouper, snapper, and tuna.While many celebrate this transformation as a fitting second life, preservationists arent giving up without a fight. Organizations like the SS United States Conservancy continue to push for an alternative, hoping to turn the ship into a floating museum akin to the USS Alabama in Mobile Bay. A Tourist Boom in MobileRegardless of its fate, the SS United States has already left an impact on Mobiles tourism scene. Locals and visitors alike are flocking to catch a glimpse of this historic ship before it disappears beneath the ocean. Harbor cruises aboard the Perdido Queen and tours through Blakeley State Park have sold out quickly with maritime enthusiasts eager to snap photos and reflect on the ships remarkable past and those looking to explore Mobiles deep connections to the sea.The Final GoodbyeDespite the nostalgia, the clock is ticking. Soon, the SS United States will make its last journey, not to another port, but to the ocean floor off the coast of Florida. Once there, it will begin its final rolenot as a fading relic, but as a vibrant, living reef, fostering marine life for generations to come. For now, as it looms over the Port of Mobile, it remains a towering testament to American ingenuity, ambition, and the fleeting nature of technological supremacy. Whether you see it as a tragic loss or a poetic new beginning, one thing is certain: the legacy of the SS United States will live onabove the waves, beneath the ocean, and in the hearts of those who remember its glory.

It is a sad commentary on our current cultural worldview that sunlight is widely perceived to be harmful, a cancer-causing threat. But what does the research actually say? And does this research affect older adults differently than other people?Spectrum: For starters, we should understand that sunlight is a complex combination of photons, with different wavelengths and properties. The sun is the original full-spectrum illumination, while both incandescent and LED lights emit, as one might expect, mostly visible-spectrum light.Intensity: The other important variable is the intensity of light, measured in LUX units (a foot away from one candle): direct sun comes in at 100,000; a cloudy day at 1,000; a kitchen or office measures 500; and a living room only 50. Thats why you need to get outside.UV: At one extreme is ultraviolet light (UV), whose wavelength is slightly shorter than visible violet. With regard to our health, UV is a mixed bag.It does cause sunburns, damages DNA, and triggers the aging of skin. It is also statistically associated with malignant melanoma, although, curiously, not with increased deaths from melanoma (because these cancers are mostly treatable).On the other hand, there are numerous health benefits: UV lowers the risk of hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), blood inflammation, and COVID infections. UV also stimulates Vitamin D synthesis in the skin. A large-scale study of 500,000 Brits, with a 12-year follow-up, found that frequent UV exposure lowered all-cause mortality by 14%, with cardiovascular deaths down 21% and total cancer mortality decreased by 13%. It gives one pause to reconsider the vast sums spent on sunscreen lotions. Just wearing light summer clothing blocks 80% of UV.IR: UV radiation represents only about 3% of the sunlight that strikes the surface of the earth, while about 50% is infrared (IR), whose lightwaves are just beyond (longer) than visible reds. IR radiation is more predominant at the beginning and end of days, while UV is strongest when the sun is overhead. A thick cloud cover reduces IR significantly more than UV. In a recent superb Huberman Lab podcast, Dr. Roger Seheult touted the many benefits of IR radiation. Most severe and chronic diseases also involve mitochondrial dysfunction (mitochondria are the small organelles within a cell that produce the energy-generating chemical ATP). One aspect of aging is that we lose 70% of our mitochondrial functioning after age 40. Unlike UV, IR radiation passes through light clothing and the surface of the skin to penetrate deep into body tissues, where it significantly stimulates mitochondrial ATP synthesis.Effects: The effects of improved mitochondrial functioning are pervasive, correlated empirically with sun exposure. Dr. Seheult cited statistics demonstrating that the greatest number of all-cause mortality comes soon after the shortest day of the year, and the lowest number of deaths occurs close to the longest days.People who live far north or south of the equator where days are particularly short in winter have higher overall mortality rates, particularly in mid-winter. In a study of almost 30,000 Swedish women, avoidance of sun exposure carried the same risk of premature death, as did smoking.There is well-replicated rigorous research that moderate IR exposure lowers the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and it reduces blood lipids and chronic inflammation. IR increases immune system response to infections, such as influenza, COVID and pre-cancerous cells.On a sunny day, just 15 minutes outside can make a big difference. If youre in a green space with lots of grasses, leaves, bushes, and trees, you can receive two to three times the IR dose because plants reflect much of the IR that strikes them (notice that most leaves dont get hot in the sun because of these reflective properties).Red Light Therapy: There are many red-light therapy devices now available if you are considering them, be sure to carefully research IR wavelengths, dosage, safety, and therapeutic benefit. One study, utilizing an IR desk unit shining only on face, neck, and hands, proved to be quite therapeutic.Forest Bathing? Dr. Seheult delighted in reminding us of the wisdom of the ancient beliefs that sunlight and fresh air promote convalescence. Forest bathing has become a thing the air around trees is infused with phytoncides that defend plants from bacteria, fungi, and insects. When inhaled by humans, they up- regulate immune functioning and lower stress levels, and reduce stress hormones. The beauty and serenity of such an environment further enhances these benefits, some of which are detectable by lab tests a month later. Furthermore, getting up with the sun (and out from behind the filtering effects of plate glass windows) helps to set your circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep patterns. Take home message: forests, parks and even golf courses soothe the soul, and the body. And early morning and late afternoon may be particularly beneficial.Sweat Benefits: Dr. Seheult is a pulmonologist who treats many respiratory infections he also reminded us about how previous generations treated patients with hot baths and hot packs, as if to sweat out infections. Its been recently discovered that body temperatures a little over 100 degrees Fahrenheit actually accelerate the production of interferon, a powerful anti-viral protein. Maybe weve been a little too quick to reduce our fevers with aspirin, Tylenol, and Advil. And maybe the saunas so favored by Scandinavians and Russians are more therapeutic than weve realized.Conclusion: As spring has sprung, we encourage everyone to get away from your screens, go outside and enjoy the benefits of the sunshine that so amply surrounds us. Residents at Kavod Senior Life have a myriad of ways to get outside, whether it be on the sunlit patio areas, in the resident gardens, on the nearby walking paths in Cherry Creek or on the many benches and sitting areas surrounding the campus. Come for a visit and see for yourself!Ben and Scott  https://theagingwiselyproject.com/

Eating healthy can help us maintain an active lifestyle. Good nutrition can help manage weight, boost energy, and prevent diseases. For caregivers, ensuring that seniors make nutritious choices while grocery shopping can significantly impact their overall well-being. With some simple strategies, shopping trips can become easier and more rewarding.Learning to Read Nutrition LabelsShopping smarter starts with deciphering nutrition labels. These labels are filled with valuable information about the foods we consume. Start by checking the serving size, as portions can be deceiving. Many packages contain multiple servings, which can impact calorie intake if you're not careful. Look at the total calories and consider how these fit into a daily diet.Pay attention to key nutrients such as:Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for balanced energyVitamins and minerals to support immune and bone healthHidden sugars and unhealthy fats, which often go by names like high-fructose corn syrup or hydrogenated oilsReading nutrition labels thoroughly can help you make healthier choices and limit unnecessary sugars and fats that may lead to health concerns.Choosing Fresh ProduceIncorporating a diverse mix of fruits and vegetables offers numerous health benefits. Fresh produce is rich in essential nutrients that support overall health. In Colorado, local and seasonal produce might include:Spring: Leafy greens like spinach and kaleSummer: Berries, tomatoes, and zucchiniFall: Pumpkins, squash, and applesWinter: Root vegetables like carrots and potatoesWhen selecting fruits and vegetables, look for vibrant colors, firm textures, and fragrant aromas. These are indicators of freshness and ripeness. Avoid produce with bruises or blemishes, as these can indicate spoilage.Avoiding Processed FoodsProcessed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and preservatives, which can adversely affect health. Limiting these items is key to maintaining a nutritious diet.When shopping, try these swaps:Choose plain yogurt over flavored optionsOpt for fresh meats instead of packaged deli itemsSelect whole grains like brown rice or quinoa instead of refined white breadStock up on healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits instead of processed snacksBy focusing on whole, natural foods, you can provide better nutritional support for seniors.Navigating Store Sections for Optimal NutritionSuccessful shopping for nutritious foods is all about knowing where to look. Grocery stores are generally organized with perimeter sections offering the freshest options, such as produce, dairy, and meats. You'll find the healthiest, least processed foods in these areas.Take time to explore the inner aisles for important staples, too. Whole grains, nuts, and legumes are often nutritious options in these sections. Just remember, the closer a food looks to how it appears in nature, the healthier it will likely be.Need Support with Healthy Eating at Home?Making informed choices at the grocery store is vital for better health. With these tips, seniors and their caregivers can foster a diet that supports long-term well-being.If you or a loved one needs support maintaining a healthy lifestyle, contact us at Senior Helpers Fort Collins. Our team proudly serves Fort Collins, Englewood, Littleton, Lone Tree, and Loveland, and we're here to help you embrace healthier habits. Call us with any questions 970-344-6227.