Lose If You Snooze

I always thought naps were good for you—especially in your older years. Not so says Live Science magazine. “Middle–age and older adults who take daytime naps may be at increased risk of dying, a new study from England suggests.” (April 22, 2014) The logic behind that statement seems to be linked to sleep apnea and the need to sleep during the day because of not getting quality sleep at night. A few years ago, a sleep doctor told me that my daytime napping habit had to go if I ever planned to get a good night’s sleep again. It took a while, but I finally kicked the nap habit. A rainy Sunday afternoon snooze is definitely the exception. 

So what’s the alternative to wanting to nap—staying busy says a recent article on the FOX Business network.  For many older Americans, that means staying in the work force longer than age 65. Seniors are working longer for the financial benefit, but also for the social satisfaction that comes from interacting with people. It’s more challenging to keep or find a job in our later years, but many employers find value in hiring the more dependable seniors who have a strong work ethic. Some folks have even started new careers during their retirement years. You may recognize some of the names below as examples of seniors who hit their stride later in life.

  

Susan Boyle – Her singing career took off after she was 50.

Colonel Sanders – He invented “finger lickin good” chicken at age 70.

Laura Ingalls Wilder – She first published the Little House on the Prairie series at age 64.

Henry Ford – He built the first car assembly line at age 60.

Today Charles and I talked with his sister, Marion, who is celebrating her 85^th birthday. She’s not slowing down one bit. In fact, she was just promoted in her job as head of her local senior center. Charles—the other half of the dynamic duo—goes to work every day determined to sell his devices for reducing aircraft drag to military and commercial operators. 2014 just might be the year.

The best Biblical example of productive old age is the Apostle Paul who was executed close to age 60. (old in Biblical times). He writes to younger Timothy (2 Tim.4:7) “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” That’s a worthy goal for our later years.

Writing this blog has made me sleepy. I think I will go take a nap.