We live in a crazy world these days, and it’s hard to be sure of anything. One thing is certain, though—older adults are living longer and getting more out of life by making their health and wellness a top priority.

In a recent study, a healthy mind and body were cited as the topic of most interest to boomers and seniors. If you’re one of the people the topic appeals to, then this insert is for you. We’ve focused on telling inspirational health and fitness stories, and providing wellness information from esteemed local experts.

Is marriage the best medicine?

Here’s a non-traditional wellness therapy you probably didn’t know about: A recent article from “Harvard Health Publications” found that married people enjoy better health than single people.

According to the article, “compared with those who are single, those who are married tend to live longer, have fewer strokes and heart attacks, have a lower chance of becoming depressed, be less likely to have advanced cancer at the time of diagnosis and more likely to survive cancer for a longer period of time [and] survive a major operation more often.”

What’s a single BEACON reader to do? You can certainly keep an eye on your own health, but if you’re looking to hedge your bets, it might be time to meet someone. Good news—the BEACON has some great, community-minded events coming up. Maybe you’ll meet The One (or at least The One Who’s Willing to Share Your Medical Bills).

Tillman “Tillie” and Pat Bishop have been married longer than many people have been alive—they celebrated their 65th anniversary last month. Married right out of high school in 1952, they helped each other graduate from college before settling down here in Grand Junction. Here’s a big BEACON “bravo” to both of them! Surprise them by sending your good wishes to 2255 Piazza Way, Grand Junction, CO 81506.

Mark your calendars

Singles and couples alike are invited to the Montrose-Delta BeaconFest, coming up on September 21 at the Montrose Pavilion from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy live music, free food, educational booths and seminars, prize giveaways and more at the area’s largest senior event! Walgreens will also give out free flu shots. You can read more about that on page 9.

Then, on September 30, join us from 6-9 p.m. at the Commons of Hilltop in Grand Junction for the free BEACON-Hilltop Block Party. We’ll be dancing beneath the stars to big band hits. The night also includes an international-inspired dinner for $12 and a cash bar. We hope to see you there!