The Rotary Club of Calgary West welcomed members and guests to Monday’s meeting, highlighted by an engaging and thought-provoking presentation from our own Dr. Raju Hajela on aging, health, mobility and making the most of the years ahead.
D
r. Hajela, a Calgary physician, educator and leader in preventative health and wellness, brought a very personal perspective to the subject. His presentation was less about a particular diet, exercise program or medical treatment and more about thinking differently about how we approach aging and our lives.
A Different Way of Looking at Aging
Dr. Hajela organized his presentation around the word MONEY, using it as a way to get members thinking about what really matters as we get older.
One of his central messages was that money cannot buy immortality. While financial security is important, there comes a point when the more important question is how we want to spend the time we have.
He encouraged members to become more comfortable talking about mortality rather than avoiding the subject. His own experiences with his aging mother provided a very personal example of how quickly circumstances can change and how important it is to have conversations about aging, independence and the future.
Those conversations, he noted, can also bring families closer together and encourage people to think about what is truly important.
Mobility Matters
One of the strongest messages from the presentation was the importance of maintaining mobility as we age.
Dr. Hajela emphasized that staying active and maintaining muscle mass can play an important role in remaining independent. He discussed sarcopenia—the loss of muscle mass that can accompany aging—and the importance of exercise and adequate protein.
Exercise doesn't necessarily have to mean following an intensive fitness program. His advice was to find activities that are enjoyable and realistic and, most importantly, keep moving.
He also emphasized that there is no single exercise or nutrition program that works for everyone. Getting appropriate advice and finding an approach that fits the individual is more important than following the latest trend.
Nutrition and Exercise
Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand, according to Dr. Hajela.
He stressed the importance of adequate protein as we age and suggested paying attention to the quality and quantity of carbohydrates in our diets. He also encouraged members to consider a variety of protein sources, including beans, vegetables, fish and poultry.
The larger message was simple: don't wait until there is a problem to start taking care of yourself.
Keep an Open Mind
Another theme was open-mindedness.
Dr. Hajela encouraged members to challenge some of the assumptions they have developed about how life is supposed to be lived. As we age, circumstances change, and remaining open to new experiences can help us continue to grow.
He shared his own interest in learning languages, travelling and trying new things as examples. He also suggested that people approaching retirement consider deliberately doing something new each year rather than simply looking forward to stopping work.
His message was to remain curious, keep learning and be willing to do things at which we may not initially be very good.
The Importance of Connection
The discussion following the presentation reinforced another important part of healthy aging: social connection.
Members shared their own experiences about the value of getting together with others, meeting people and maintaining friendships.
It was a fitting message for a Rotary meeting. Fellowship and community are not simply enjoyable parts of being a Rotarian—they can also contribute to a richer and more meaningful life.
Dr. Hajela's presentation gave members plenty to think about and generated an active question-and-answer period.
As is customary when a Calgary West member presents to the Club, a ShelterBox donation was made in recognition of Dr. Hajela's presentation.
Supporting the Maya Devi Hospital Project
Members were also reminded about the upcoming Child Foundation fundraiser supporting the Maya Devi Hospital in India.
Rotarians have been involved with the hospital since 2011, helping support its development and various projects over the years. Calgary West, together with the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown and the Centennial club, has also been involved in a recently approved Rotary Global Grant supporting an eye clinic at the hospital. Approximately US$71,000 has been identified for the project, with the project expected to proceed once the remaining funding is received.
The fundraising event will be held October 25 at 5:00 p.m. at Empress Banquet Hall. Members are encouraged to attend, bring family and friends, and help fill a table. The evening will include Indian cuisine and cultural performances.
Casino Fundraiser Underway
Calgary West's casino fundraiser was taking place as the meeting was being held, with many Club members volunteering.
Additional volunteers were still being sought for the evening, including positions in the casino and count room. Thanks to everyone who stepped forward to help make the fundraiser a success.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Members were also reminded of several upcoming opportunities to get involved:
- Food Bank: One additional volunteer was needed for Wednesday.
- Bingo: One additional volunteer was still needed for the upcoming Sunday bingo.
- Members were encouraged to watch their email for details and respond if they are able to help.
Remembering a Longtime Rotarian
Members were reminded that Clarence Buckley, a longtime member of Calgary West, is now living in a care facility.
Clarence joined the Club in 1968 and remains interested in what is happening at Calgary West. Members who are in the area were encouraged to consider dropping in for a visit. He has also asked to remain informed about Club activities and enjoys reading about what Calgary West is doing.
After more than five decades of Rotary service, it was a wonderful reminder that our Club's connections with members continue throughout their lives.
2027–2028 Board Positions
President-Elect Gord Cox reminded members that the Nominating Committee is seeking expressions of interest for two positions on the 2027–2028 Club Board:
- President-Elect Nominee
- Director – Fundraising
Members have 30 days to express their interest. Anyone who did not receive the original email or would like more information can contact Gord.
Board service is an opportunity for members to contribute, work with fellow Rotarians and help guide the Club's future. Support is available, and members were encouraged not to view a Board position as an onerous commitment.
Together, we continue to make a difference in our community and around the world.
