I’m 49 years old, and, just like the senior adults I work with, I’m not getting any younger.

But aging isn’t slowing me down, and it’s not slowing many of these residents down either. If anything, aging has been a catalyst for growth and independence in my life as well as theirs.

People often ask me, “How often should I exercise?” My answer is simple: as many days as you want to feel good, have more energy and live happy! Whether you’re 95, 55 or 25, daily movement of some kind is the number one key to healthy aging.

Every day, I work with senior adults who live with varying degrees of physical ability. Some require a walker for mobility, others a scooter, and some walk three miles a day! They come to me maximize their current physical capabilities and build strength from whichever fitness level they start. Our focus is always on what they can do, never on what they can’t.

These adults inspire me to live the healthiest life I can. They are some of the smartest, most accomplished individuals I’ve ever met. It’s because of them that wellness is far more than a job to me. It’s a responsibility.   

It’s a responsibility I have to the residents, to create fun, challenging fitness programs tailored to their individual needs.

It’s a responsibility to I have my colleagues, to set an appropriate example of living well in a demanding workplace.

It’s a responsibility I have to my family, to live long enough to hold grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

It’s a responsibility I have to myself, to maintain a quality of life that makes me excited to get out of bed every morning.

And ultimately, it’s a responsibility I have to God, to ensure I steward this gift He’s given me of a strong body that can do amazing things.  

Holly Jones serves as the Wellness Coordinator for Buckner Villas in Austin. She has been with the Buckner family since August 2010.