For Immediate Release:
May 1, 2007
Contact:
Nanci Gonder
Office of Public Information
(573) 751-6062
“Laugh—it’s good for your health,” says Department of Health and Senior Services’ (DHSS) director Jane Drummond, who kicks off Older Americans Month today with four stories of older people who are living proof of the adage.
Drummond refers to four senior Missourians who have overcome a number of health adversities with laughter, a positive attitude and staying active. Among them are a television celebrity, a Senior Olympian, a breast cancer survivor, and a reluctant exercise guru. “Each is a vital part of his or her community and offers lessons to us all,” says Drummond. “And more and more, studies show that laughter releases endorphins, hormones that are suspected of boosting a person’s immunity to disease. One study even suggests that 15 minutes of laughter a day may help prevent a heart attack.”
Pictures of the four and articles about them appear on the DHSS Web site throughout May. To view the stories, click on the blue, orange and green Older Americans Month logo, “Making Choices for a Healthier Future.” The site also displays statistics on how today's older Americans are dramatically different from previous generations. For one thing, they're better educated and living longer and healthier lives.
Older Americans Month originated with a presidential proclamation in May 1963. U.S. presidents ever since then have proclaimed May 1 through May 31 as a time to honor and pay homage to older people, whose ranks are growing due to the aging of 78 million baby boomers who began turning 60 last year. The month is celebrated with ceremonies, events and fairs nationwide.
For more information, contact the Department of Health and Senior Services at (573) 751-6062.