The Art of Healthy Aging

Retired Judge Thomas Snook Rides With the Sobs (Seniors on Bikes)

By Amanda Martell and Kylie Wang
Photos by Rodolfo Benitez

The concept of healthy aging is hardly new. Common sense says the more exercise you get for your brain and body, the healthier you’ll be as you reach your senior years. And yet, according to the National Institute of Health, only 25 percent of Americans between ages 65 and 74 and only 11 percent of those 85 and over exercise regularly. The Center for Disease Control, meanwhile, recommends at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity per week for adults 65 and up.

In Coral Gables, the largest segment of our population consists of seniors 65 years and older (almost 20 percent). So, as the New Year gets underway and everyone starts attempting to meet their new exercise goals, why not seniors too? From retirement community exercise programs to the Adult Activity Center’s range of movement-based classes to cycling clubs and dance groups, seniors all over the Gables are keeping fit by staying active. Here, we’ve profiled six exemplary Gableites – super agers, if you will – from ages 76 to 100 that amazed us with their dedication to fitness. We hope they inspire you, too.


JUDE ALEXANDER

For Jude Alexander, the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center (AAC) is her gym. The 76-year-old spends most days there taking the classes it offers, including Pilates, line dancing, total body conditioning, Zumba, and barre. She’s also in a dance group with friends from the Center, which does holiday performances in various dance styles throughout the year. And she also golfs and walks regularly.

“I used to go to the gym at lunch when I worked at the University [of Miami],” says Alexander, “but I didn’t really like that. I like classes with people. I’m a social person, so I enjoy the company.” When Alexander was younger, she was in amateur dramatics in England, where she was born. She found it harder to find opportunities to dance in groups until she joined the Adult Activity Center.

Dance is more than just exercise for your body, says Alexander, but also for your brain. “It’s good mental exercise. You really have to pay attention and follow a pattern [you have to remember]. It’s not just for your muscles.”

Of her exercise routine, she says, “I like being busy. I’m not one for sitting around. I exercise four days a week in the mornings and then a couple of afternoons with rehearsals.” She says she’s seen the effects, especially compared to her peers who don’t exercise much. “I know that I’m strong, I know that I’m healthy, and I know I’ve got a lot of energy. I don’t think I would have that if I didn’t do what I do.” She encourages her friends and anyone in the community to join the AAC, and “get off the sofa!”


DR. HAROLD SILBERMAN

Born in Brooklyn, Dr. Harold Silberman discovered his passion for movement as the captain of his high school swim team. “Swimming taught me discipline,” he says. “It’s about consistency and pushing yourself to improve every day.” That mindset carried into adulthood with tennis victories in singles and doubles tournaments, as well as water skiing with his family. “I was an avid water skier, and all my kids became accomplished water skiers,” Silberman shares. “My youngest son even became a barefoot skier!”

Now 99-years-old and living at The Palace, Silberman maintains an active lifestyle. His mornings start with stretching and weight-lifting classes, followed by laps in the heated pool. “Swimming clears my mind and strengthens my body,” he says. “It’s the best way to start the day.” He also plays table tennis with an Olympic champion. “Even at 99, I like to win,” he jokes.

During World War II, Silberman served as a communications officer aboard the USS Arkansas, a role that required precision under pressure. “It taught me how to stay calm and focused – skills I’ve carried with me ever since.” He emphasizes the importance of nutrition, starting his day with fresh fruit and caffeine-free coffee, and often ending it with salmon topped with barbecue sauce. “It’s an unusual combo, but it works for me,” he says with a shrug.

To stay mentally sharp, Silberman also plays chess daily and edits The Residents’ Gazette at The Palace. Reflecting on his life, the soon-to-be centenarian says, “I didn’t waste any time in my life, and I still won’t.” His advice? “Stay active, stay curious, and find what brings you joy.”


DONNA FALES

At 84 years old, Donna Fales has been playing tennis for a colossal 74 years. In the 1960s, she was a top 10 player in the U.S., with a long list of prolific teammates and opponents, including tennis great Billie Jean King. In ’62, Fales took home the U.S. clay court singles title and in ’66, she won the U.S. mixed doubles championship. Today, she’s still winning.

“I don’t think I could feel any better [than I do now],” says Fales, who attributes her excellent health to frequent exercise. “I think the most important thing to do is to keep moving and have a flexible spine. I do Pilates. I bike a little bit. I walk three miles three mornings a week. I usually play tennis three times a week,” she says, before admitting, “I do take a day off.” Fales is so fit that she plays tennis in the age category beneath hers just to stay challenged. “It’s just amazing to feel this good,” she says. In November, she represented Florida in a national team competition; her team won the championship.

Fales stresses the importance of a regular routine, especially for seniors. “It’s easy to overlook, but as we age, we need more maintenance,” she says. “You almost always have something that might be hurting, but you’re never going to get away from that.” For her, it’s arthritis in her hands, which makes swinging a tennis racket hard – but not impossible. “It hurts… but not enough to keep me from playing,” she says. “The only thing I can say is the more you move, the longer you live.”


THOMAS SNOOK

For retired judge Thomas Snook, 78, cycling is the key to staying active, healthy, and mentally sharp. Snook uses biking not just for transportation but to maintain a balance in life. “I take my blood pressure every morning, and the doctor says it’s low because I’m exercising,” he says with pride.

Snook has always prioritized an active lifestyle. Whether cycling to work during his career as chief trial judge of the Coast Guard or engaging in outdoor activities, he’s relied on movement to stay fit and energized. “I’ve always believed that staying active helps you feel your best, no matter what stage of life you’re in,” he says.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Snook decided to reignite his passion for biking. “I thought I’d go stir crazy,” he recalls. “So, I got back on my bike, waited until after rush hour, and started riding again. It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Now, Snook rides twice a week with the SOBs (Seniors on Bikes – not whatever you’re thinking!), a group of retirees who stick to shady, tree-lined routes. “In Coral Gables, it’s about 10 degrees cooler under the trees,” Snook says. And, of course, the health benefits have been transformative. “I’ve lost 20 pounds cycling,” the retiree says. He also credits his Mediterranean-inspired diet for his overall well-being. “I’ve basically cut out red meat,” he says. “It’s made a big difference.” Proper hydration is another essential. “It’s the key to avoiding cramps,” he explains.

Snook’s advice for anyone who wants to get started: “Don’t wait. Staying active now makes everything easier later.”


JANET ROSTON

Reaching 100 years is a milestone few achieve, and Janet Roston has done so with grace, resilience, and a deep connection to her community. As a resident of Belmont Village, she stays engaged in multiple ways – physically, mentally, and socially – while maintaining an optimistic outlook on life.

“I love my fitness classes,” Roston says. “The teacher is marvelous, and I’m glad I can do what I can.” While she no longer walks long distances or drives, she praises Belmont’s accessible amenities for keeping her active. She attends fitness classes there at least once a week, lifting weights and doing chair-based workouts. “I don’t have to go out, so I make the most of what’s here,” she adds.

Roston also prioritizes mental fitness. A self-proclaimed “word person,” she holds the title of resident Scrabble champion at Belmont. “I’ve always loved words and writing,” she explains. “When I worked, I was in the word business – public relations and secretarial work.”

Roston’s approach to health is straightforward. “I try to eat carefully,” she says, avoiding “rich, gooey stuff” while enjoying balanced meals courtesy of the Belmont chefs. Beyond her focus on wellness, the centenarian makes sure to stay true to herself, keeping herself feeling good by looking good. “There are a lot of things I don’t do, but my lipstick is forever,” she says with a laugh.

When reflecting on her long life, Roston shares timeless advice: “Treat people the way you’d like to be treated. And accept your natural limitations, whatever they are. I’m grateful for what I can do.” Despite her accomplishments, Roston remains humble about her longevity. “It’s just dumb luck,” she says modestly. “All of a sudden, you’re 100.”


JOHN CUSTER

John Custer has built a life centered around movement and resilience. At 72-years-old, the Coral Gables Grand Living resident stays active despite facing health challenges, including a stroke over a decade ago. “The stroke affected my balance and vision, but it didn’t stop me,” he says. “Swimming became my sanctuary. It’s something I enjoy, and it keeps me connected to myself and my health.”

Swimming is now his primary form of exercise. “I swim three to four times a week at the Grand Living pool, usually a mile without stopping,” he shares. “I like the feel of the water. It’s good for me physically, but also mentally – it’s a great stress reliever.” Custer’s approach to eating is simple and practical. “I don’t follow any kind of strict diet,” he says. “When you’re cooking for one, it’s not exactly exciting, but I try to eat wisely. Last night, I had a spinach salad with eggs and tomatoes. It’s not about perfection – just about making good choices most of the time.”

Fitness has been a constant in Custer’s life since high school. “I ran cross-country and competed on the weightlifting team,” he recalls. “Those experiences taught me discipline, and I’ve carried that with me.” Over the years, he’s adapted his routine to suit his body’s needs. “When running became too hard on my knees, I transitioned to swimming,” he says. “You have to listen to your body and make adjustments.”


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