Quote Originally Posted by ny biker View Post
My parents are in their late 70s, and are up and down stairs all day in their house. I actually think it has helped them stay fit. They could live on one floor of the house, but won't do that unless they really have to.
My Dad lived to his early 80's. If you'd met him up to his last year you might not have guessed his age. You'd have thought maybe 70's. And you'd never have guessed he was seriously ill. He'd take you on a tour striding around the 3 acre garden or out chopping wood or turning a mountain of compost. After his death mom moved from the single story home she'd designed for them to a place of her own. Also one story.

We worried how she would do alone although my brother and I lived nearby. She started gardening almost immediately and we knew she'd be ok. Mom went on living actively and independently, raising heck, fruit and veggies. She passed away almost a year ago at 92. I remember her saying when someone asked how she kept so alert and active "just keep moving."

There's genetic luck of the draw, nutrition, but perhaps activity was key. For them that was gardening, close community and friends, that and cross word puzzles.