5 Seniors Keeping the World in Motion, Today!

While some cultures simply respected their elders for their contributions throughout their life, other cultures kept elderly family members completely integrated as a vital part of the family. 

While technology, science, and knowledge in general has increased throughout the ages, societies still haven't quite figured out how to adapt to those changes. With a life expectancy of 79-85 in most countries, people are living much longer than any other time in history, and we're still learning how to use this as a global advantage, and wealthy resource.

Below are 5 seniors who are paving the way for the future of seniors in societies all over the world.

Seniors Who Have an Important Role in Society, and Why

Wendy Mayhew- Entrepreneur, Author, and Speaker

Not only was Wendy an expert in her "prime", but she has continued to invest and develop new projects at the age of 69. She literally wrote the book on Seniors in the Entrepreneur world, and passionately in her community through her businesses and volunteer work with the Canadian Youth Business Foundation, among other organizations.

Wang Deshun- Chinese Actor and Runway Model

Affectionately know as "Hottest Grandpa", Wang Deshun was censored by his government for his art at a young age, and worked in factories. His modeling career didn't begin until his daughter's boss, fashion designer Hu Sheguang, noticed his look and immediately asked him to participate in a unique runway performance. As an actor at his core, Wang Deshun believes his body is simply a tool to make art, and in the end, art has always been his calling.

Johanna Quaas- German Gymnast

At 95 years old, Johanna is the oldest gymnast in the world. After training and studying her sport for years in her German home, gymnastics was suddenly banned by the Allied Control Council (1945-1947). Once it was finally repealed she went back to work, and hasn't stopped training coaches and competing since then. She's even made it into The Guinness Book of Records!

Paul Siromoni- Mental Health PhD, Humanitarian, 

At 90 years of age, after years of humanitarian work with his wife Joyce (equally impressive), Paul finished his PhD, his thesis being "God's call to the church to join in transforming the world into a kingdom of love." His focus on the purity and power of love to unite people of all faiths has resulted in the Indian Society for Applied Behavioral Science, and "Paripurnata", a home for those suffering from mental illnesses to find acceptance and recovery.

Brenda Krause Eheart

Finally, the last person on our list in Brenda, a senior whose studies, work, and philosophies has finally culminated into a community style of living, where foster children and families receive support from elderly community members. In return, the children and families help to keep them active, and aid in difficult tasks and transportation. Now, Brenda's life work (Generations of Hope Development Corporation), and her unique communities, are growing in several states, and her philosophy has sparked new projects like Genesis, a solution for young mothers aging out of the foster care system.

Senior Helpers of Charlotte

For more inspiration or resources for older adults in the Charlotte area, contact Senior Helpers today!