The nine longevity traits of the Zoomer lifestyle A Boomer is anyone born between 1946 and 1964. No other qualifications necessary. Zoomer status requires the adoption of what Demko calls nine Longevity Traits. The nine Zoomer traits: 1. Adhere to daily nutritional and caloric needs based on age, gender and weight Examples: annual physical exam, daily multi-vitamin, drink lots of water (5 ozs per 10 lbs. of body weight). 2. Perform daily brain exercises to enhance memory, learning, and problem-solving skills. Examples: crossword puzzles, card games, brain teasers, chess, read aloud, learn something new. 3. Maintain a total fitness regimen of aerobics (endurance) and anaerobics (strength and flexibility) Examples: 20 minutes speed walk at Target Heart Rate, 10 minutes low-impact lifting (aquatics).( 4. Orchestrate a social network of companions, friends, and confidantes. Examples: voluntary service, be a good listener, sign-up for group travel, get a pet for companionship. 5. Build a positive self-concept and passion for living life to the fullest. Examples: take the MMPI to identify project that fit your personality, think positive, learn to laugh often. 6. Create a repertoire of faith-based coping skills. Examples: join a spiritual group and participate regularly, keep a positive attitude. 7. Engage in sound retirement planning necessary to live an adventurous life. Examples: enroll in a college course, visit your bank's trust departement for advice. 8. Learn the difference between primary (inevitable) and secondary (reversible) aging Examples: join a self-improvement group, visit www.NIH.gov for updates on health topics. 9. Cultivate a keen sense of intellectual curiosity about your world. Examples: make a habit of asking questions: "How, Why, Compared to what, Where can I find out more?" Reprinted with permission from AgeVentureNews Service/Zoomer Magazine, Boca Raton FL.