Cultivating Healthy Aging

Gordon and Dorian Chong joined Lamorinda Village in the early days of the Pandemic. Initially, they were looking for grocery shopping services, but once the world opened up again, they quickly began taking advantage of other Village offerings. Gordon soon joined the board, spearheading a new focus on Healthy Aging, and leading a committee tasked with creating a strategic plan for the Village. Recently, Dorian offered to facilitate a new bi-monthly knitting group, and Knit Wits was born. The knitting group proved so popular, it now meets every week. In addition to volunteering, Gordon and Dorian attend Don’s Golden Happy Hour, luncheons, and other Village social activities such as the book group and writing group. Having only moved to Lafayette in retirement, participation in the Village activities has paved the way for many new and valued friendships.

As a frequent participant in the Lafayette Community Center walks around the reservoir, Gordon understands the benefits of regular exercise but also knows that healthy aging goes deeper than physical health.  On his walks, Gordon engages in discussions on a variety of health-related topics, with other Lamorinda Village members including retired nutritionist Jim Scala and retired Cardiologist Prasad Palakurthy. Engaging with Jim, Prasad, and others keep Gordon’s cognitive skills sharp and deepen his understanding of healthspan or living healthier longer. 

Dorian and Gordon set an example for all of us, exercising their physical, cognitive, and social emotional muscles, modeling their recipe for a long and healthy life.