A friend of mine took up flying when he was nearing 70. He is now an active volunteer for Angel Flights, flying critically ill men, women and children to far-away hospitals for treatment. 

A 98-year-old woman I know spends hours of otherwise idle time sketching pictures of flowers and landscapes with a ball-point pen on white type paper — and making collages from magazine cut-outs. She also picked up the accordian for the first time in her 70s — and now entertains "seniors" at local senior centers. Incidentally, she learned how to boogie-board around the same time.

I met a man the other day in his mid 80s who has been diligently writing his life story and piecing together his family geneology through online research.

Adopting new hobbies and seeking opportunities to learn something new is part of the magic formula for living a long, healthy life. It seems to be a key component, in fact. According to an online article "Hobbies Keep Centenarians Sharp," these pastimes help keep our minds sharp and agile. 

If you've always wanted to learn to play the piano or speak German, stop thinking of it as an indulgence for tomorrow. More likely, it's a health tonic for today.