Gerontologist Dr Joseph DeMayo delivered a presentation on “Factors that Impact the Aging Process” at C.H. Booth Library on Thursday, April 24.

The session was sponsored by Friends of Newtown Seniors (FONS) as part of the “Timeless Newtown: Embracing Every Generation” series, which aims to counteract the negative attitudes and stereotypes associated with aging.

More than two dozen guests attended and were engaged throughout the presentation. In the event, DeMayo placed emphasis on the five “Blue Zones,” which are found around the world. He defined the zones as locations that have a larger number of centenarians than any other worldwide location. The one Blue Zone located in the United States is Loma Linda, Calif.

In reviewing these “Blue Zones,” DeMayo spoke to the effectiveness of having a plant-based diet, continuing to exercise, being connected to a social or religious group, staying mentally active by reading, doing puzzles, attending lectures, engaging in meaningful conversations, taking time to relax, imbibing in adult beverages in moderation, and having a purpose in life.

He also stressed that only 10-20% of aging successfully is based upon genetics, with the rest being environmental factors.

DeMayo also reviewed the danger of seniors falling and provided strategies to address this concern. Lastly, he reviewed the “Beers Criteria List” of medicines that can be harmful for older individuals and should be avoided unless prescribed by a physician.