When we think of hobbies, many things come to mind, and often the word evokes a sense of immediate attachment to activities that vitalize life.
As Tampa Bay's TBO.com writes, in a story profiling 85 year old hobbyist Vic Heins, the presence of hobbies helps ward off the sense that life is slowing down, too much, as seniors set up their daily routines.
For Heins, who dabbles in painting, writing and photography, the list of hobbies is continually growing.
Heins thinks the worst things sometimes turn out to be the best things, and after facing ailments including skin cancer, two aneurisms, a calf amputation and a bout with MRSA, Heins has decided not to let anything hinder his creativity.
His spirit is inspiring and invigorating, and exactly in keeping with Provision Living's approach to speaking to the hearts of the residents of our communities. 
While we're not necessarily suggesting seniors get involved in pole-vaulting, as 95 year old California senior, Don Pellmann, does as a regular participant in the senior olympics, the notion that active participation in less-strenuous hobbies sustains and improves alertness seems a healthy thing to support and encourage.
In the Faith and Values section of Wisconsin's TheJournalTimes.com, a recent profile of Herb and Ellie Weinbrenner, who recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, pointed out that the senior couple participates together in a regular camping outing each Labor Day, and Mrs. Wienbrenner stays active via hobbies including knitting, reading, and crossword puzzles.
Will hobbies help you attain 60 years of marriage?
Can't hurt, especially if you're involved in hobbies with your spouse.
Overseas, in Taiwan, a new foundation focuses on encouraging seniors to develop creative interests as they age. The idea is simple: the elderly can lead full and productive lives, and they need to be encouraged to display their talents there.
It's not a matter of getting the most out of retirement, it's a matter of getting the most out of life, regardless of what stage of life one is in.
As the seniorcitizenjournal.com blogs, "Tomorrow is a treasure chest. It awaits being opened. The multitude of jewels sparkle before you, waiting to be picked up, examined, invested in ways that will pay dividends in interest, satisfaction, joy, offerings of accomplishment."
We couldn't say it any better.
(Image Courtesy of Gurdonark on Flickr)
