As part of our Share Your Story series, we’d like you to meet Bill Monroe, Aging Resources volunteer!  Bill has been part of our amazing volunteer team since April 2019.  Whether driving the Aging Resources van or delivering food boxes during pandemic stay-at-home orders, Bill truly exemplifies dedication to our mission and we couldn’t be more grateful to have him on our volunteer team. We hope you enjoy Bill’s story as much as we do.

Aging Resources (AR): What’s your why?  Everyone has a reason why they choose to give back to their community and volunteer.  Tell us why you chose to become a volunteer for Aging Resources!
Bill Monroe (BM): I retired in 2019 and needed some activities to take the place of work.  I had always done some volunteering even when working.  Driving for Aging Resources allowed me to give some of my time while at the same time providing the flexibility to keep my schedule of travel and other activities.   
AR: What keeps you coming back as a volunteer with Aging Resources?
BM: Primarily it's because I enjoy the clients I provide rides for.  I've got some regulars on Monday and Friday and occasionally I take others during the week.  The clients are all very appreciative and I enjoy hearing their stories.  The staff at Aging Resources is also very helpful and friendly.
 
AR: Did you have a role model growing up?
BM: I'd have to say that both of my parents were my role models.  They both worked hard, provided well for the family and emphasized the value of a good education.  It paid off for me because I had a rewarding 45-year career in the retail petroleum business and have a great family including my wife, Cindy, two sons, their wives and a grandchild.   I also have another grandchild due in early July in Singapore.
 
AR: Do you have any hobbies?
BM: My primary hobbies are athletic.   I like to play pickleball and I ride my bike a lot.  I will do at least 200 miles during most months.  I have a four-day mountain bike trip planned for early October at Bears Ears National Monument near Moab, Utah.  I'd like to continue all this as long as I am able.

AR: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
BM: I'd like to be able to fly and not in a plane.  That would make travel much easier.  

AR: What is one thing you have yet to cross off your bucket list?
BM: I'd really like to tour Europe.  We've been there a couple of times on cruises, but I'd really like to see more of the countries and spend more time there.

AR: What’s the first thing you would do if you won the lottery?
BM: Travel more.  The world is full of interesting people, places and experiences.   I've been to all 50 states in the U.S., but the rest of the world has a lot to offer.  This is a picture [above] of me and my pilot Jorge on my gyroplane trip in Costa Rica last January.

In honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, we thought we’d share some common tips and tricks to improve your body and your mind.  Studies persistently demonstrate that adopting these key lifestyle habits can help reduce older adults’ risk of cognitive decline.  It’s never too late to make a change and start including these activities in your daily routine! 
 

• Exercise!

 Exercise elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body.  The CDC recommends that older adults engage in two and a half hours of moderate aerobic activity per week, and muscle strengthening activity twice per week.  Studies have shown a link between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline. 

• Activate your mind!

Challenge yourself with a jigsaw puzzle, sudoku, or a crossword.  Play games that make you think strategically, like bridge.  Pushing yourself in these ways may have long and short-term benefits for your brain.  Talk to us about our Aging Mastery Kits, which we’re able to offer free of charge for a limited time.
 

• Eat right!

Eating a diet that’s high in fruits and vegetables and low in fat can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.  There’s some evidence that following a Mediterranean-style diet may lower your risk of developing dementia. 

• Get enough sleep!

It’s a common myth that older adults’ need less sleep than the rest of the population.  Actually, not getting enough sleep can produce difficulties with memory and cognitive function. 

• Quit smoking!

Smoking increases your risk of cognitive decline, and quitting can reduce that risk to levels comparable to those who have not smoked.  If you need help, talk to the Colorado QuitLine today!
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• Stay socially engaged!

Staying involved in meaningful relationships and connected to your community supports brain health.  Find activities that are meaningful to you.  If you’re able, consider volunteering, either with Aging Resources or for another cause that you connect with.  If you’re feeling isolated, talk to us about our companionship services. 
 
Sources: CDC; National Institute on Aging; Alzheimer’s Association