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Guest Writers Blog

This blog presents the ideas and creative thinking of some of Utah's talented older adult writers. Their submissions are to inform and entertain, not to present policy or opinion positions of the Utah Commission on Aging.  Enjoy. 

Aging, Bone Density, & Choices that Might Prevent or Cause Broken Bones

elderly man sitting on a couch with a broken leg

Bone density, an indicator of one’s predisposition to bone fractures, can be measured by a DEXA Scan. I had my latest DEXA scan on 12/11/23. In the first call from my doctor’s nurse, he simply stated that there had been an increase in my bone density since my last test two years ago, so I should keep taking every-6-month Prolia shots. Unlike my usual “do-what-the-doctor-says” self, I replied that I refused to continue the shots and explained my reasons.

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Intermittent Fasting Is Working...So Far

Woman standing on a scale.

Intermittent Fasting (IF) is a popular eating strategy that involves restricting when and how often you eat, and it has less of an emphasis on what or how much you eat. Until I started IF, the only thing that worked for me was to go cold turkey on sugary treats like cookies (my weakness), chocolate, candy in any form, and all desserts. It takes me 3-4 days to get over the intense craving of my sugar addiction and then I feel great…until the next social event, or sleepless night, or the need to reward myself overtakes my willpower.

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Grandma Guilt

Dennis with grandkids

Probably most people reading this—grandma or grandpa—adore their grandchildren. You anxiously awaited the birth of the first one and now you can’t see them nearly often enough to suit you. Oh, I know the old saying, “It’s great to have them come, and it’s great to have them go home.” But if the other grandparents I know are to be believed, their grandchildren are the light of their eyes and their grandchildren adore them! But I have no idea how many of you actually feel guilt about their grandparenting or lack thereof.

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Education for Girls and Women of All Ages

Marti at age 23

My mother got her college degree when she was almost 73 years old. She died of cancer before she turned 74. Was it worth it? I think she would say, “Definitely!” She participated in BYU’s remote education program in the 1990s, before virtual education and even email was a thing. This was made even more difficult because she was living in Brazil. All communication with professors and assignments had to be mailed back and forth.

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Last Updated: 11/18/21