97th Birthday!

We organized a 97th birthday celebration for our father Joon Sang Chew recently on 12 July. Present at the gathering were 3 of his 5 children who are in Malaysia, their spouses, 7 of his 16 grand children (2 came with spouse /girlfriend) and 2 of his 5 great grandchildren.

He is 97, belonging to the group of the oldest old. Alhamdulillah (praise to God) he is healthy for his age. This reminds me of an article I read recently (written by Dr. Thomas T. Perls) that “contrary to the belief that the incidence of chronic, disabling disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease, increases inexorably with age …when I became a fellow in geriatrics, I was surprised to find that the oldest old were often the most healthy and agile of the senior people under my care”.

Dr. Thomas T. Perls also wrote, “What biological and environmental factors might allow the oldest old humans to reach age 95 and beyond in good health? Multiple and intertwined influences undoubtedly play important roles. So-called longevity genes seem to protect against the development of diseases; genetically or otherwise determined adaptive abilities enable survivors to avoid potentially life-threatening conditions. Modifications in everyday activities, such as not smoking, practicing better nutrition and exercising, may also help some people stay fit longer. Basic good luck surely helps as well”.

I am just grateful to the Almighty that my father is healthy, relatively agile (he walks with a walking stick which he holds in the air!), has a good appetite and definitely not senile.