Paul Girch is an 81-year-old who knows that a key to healthy aging is being active. Paul’s message is, “Make exercise a part of your life, at any age.� In his youth, Paul was always physically active. He was a distance runner and a varsity football and basketball player.
Today, he continues his exercise regime by going to the gym three evenings a week, where for one hour you will find him lifting free weights, using weight machines, and jogging on the treadmill. “Strength training is an important part of my weekly routine,� Paul says, who maintains perfect posture and gait. And on any given morning, you’ll find Paul on the golf course where he walks 18 holes with his buddies at least three times per week. He shoots an 81 on most days, which is both his goal and his age; for most golfers, shooting 90 makes for a good day. Paul’s environment supports his healthy Paul Girch. aging.
In 1994, he and his wife Patricia moved to Laguna Woods Village in Orange County, California. Previously known as Leisure World, this 55+ age-restricted community supports their active lifestyle. It is located on 2,100 acres (850 hectares) of rolling hillsides just minutes from the beach. The weather is nearly perfect year-round. As natives of Nebraska, the couple appreciates the mild climate. The community is home to 18,000 older adults with an average age of 67. It offers seven clubhouses, a 27-hole golf course, five swimming pools, a computer center, a performing arts center, and an equestrian center. There are more than 300 clubs and organizations to choose from. According to Paul, “There are so many activities available in the community, it is an incentive to get out and be active.�