Insights into the practical aspects of aging and its potential challenges were offered by world-renowned experts who took a look at some of the serious issues surrounding death. Topics ranged from discussions regarding choices related to fatal illnesses to thoughts on assisted suicide, leading edge burial methods, cryonics and tips on fine tuning the art of the obituary. The sometimes serious tone of the session was broken up by requisite moments of levity. Internationally acclaimed filmmaker John Zaritsky relived his days as a ski bum in Vancouver and told us how his days of hanging around with younger people helped to shape his aging process. At 66, John is working on his latest documentary, a musical comedy about dying he calls Leave Them Laughing.
The final session focused on healthy living and the importance of prevention and strategy to maintaining overall good health and lifestyle. Discussions from international experts on current trends in pandemic preparation to products that help strengthen our immune system to prevent disease were timely and well received. The importance of good financial health was stressed by financial guru Dr. Sherry Cooper who provided tips on how to ensure a healthy retirement.
Dr. Alan Hirsch, Neurological Director of the Smell and Taste Research and Treatment Foundation in Chicago, delivered a scientific overview as to how certain tastes and aromas can affect behaviour and interactions between individuals. Scents are key to experiencing a sense of nostalgia, and one study showed that the smell of baked goods was the #1 reminder of childhood memories.
While the CARP conference proved that certain aspects of aging are definitely no laughing matter, a certain amount of laughter in your life doesn’t seem to hurt. Sessions were broken up at strategic points throughout the day by experts in relaxation and yoga, strength training and good old fashioned swing-style dance. Award-winning dance group the Jitterbugs moved the audience with a rousing routine that had even the most exercise-challenged wishing they were swinging on stage.
The conference ended on a high note with interactive exercises led by award-winning filmmaker, journalist and “laughologist” Albert Nerenberg. To Nerenberg, “Laugh F/X” is critical for general wellness, and he encourages Zoomers to engage in the increasingly popular practice called “laughter yoga” that is infecting the young at heart everywhere.
There is a new vision of aging out there and it’s taking the world by storm. Zoomers are a vibrant and persistent bunch determined to focus on the living process. Having seen the energy, confidence and inspiring spirit of both the conference speakers and attendees, it’s clear that Zoomers are the ones who will have the last laugh in life – perhaps even in death. As John Zaritsky so nobly points out in his upcoming musical comedy…always “Leave Them Laughing.”
For detailed bios of the 2009 CARP conference speakers, please click here
Karen Hegmann is Principal of K-Vision Communications and a Toronto-based freelance writer.
