Americans are living longer than ever before. The Living Proof column shines a light on those who live vibrantly throughout their golden years.
A healthy brain is key to a life well lived. Research shows that if you speak another language, your risk for dementia decreases. And if you travel and explore new environments and cultures and make global friends, it ignites neural pathways that strengthen brain health and aid in resiliency, confidence and a sense of wonder, curiosity and adventure.
Boyd Roper, 74, of Redondo Beach is an entrepreneur and an avid traveler. Raised in Yokohama by a Japanese mother and an American father, Boyd was born into a bilingual, bicultural family (as was his wife of 47 years, Mieko).
The two moved to California at age 18 to attend college. They married and raised their son, Jon Boyd, in Redondo Beach. Global adventures with dear friends are a yearly treat. The couple will be in Peru this summer. Some travel highlights from the past 10 years include a cruise to Eastern European capitals; trips to Portugal, Malta, Morocco and Greece; and a Mediterranean cruise.
“We love to explore new places and cultures. Our favorite trip was to Egypt and Petra (Jordan) a few years ago. It was so fascinating!” says Roper.
Health is Wealth
Mental and physical health are linked. Studies show daily exercise (even low-impact walking) increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain and bolsters balance, mood and memory. When exercise is combined with friends, it’s a social outlet that fosters connection and an overall sense of well-being.
Roper’s favorite exercise is playing golf with lifelong friends, which he’s done for 45 years! His diet reflects his multicultural upbringing as he loves pasta but also fish with veggies. Gut health is important to Roper, who enjoys a daily probiotic drink.
“I admit that I like my carbs,” he laughs, “but I never eat bread with dinner and eat healthy for the most part because of Mieko. She’s a great cook!”
Laid-Back Vibes
Often seen in a T-shirt, jeans and flip-flops, Roper appears 10 years younger and has great balance navigating the many stairs in his home. The laid-back family man is soft-spoken and at ease. It’s hard to imagine him getting anxious, which is great for heart health and getting a good night’s sleep. To relax, Roper gardens, reads, walks and “sometimes” does yoga with Mieko.
His life incorporates fun and adventurous endeavors with relaxing activities—boosting mental and physical health.
Boyd Roper’s Keys to Health
Weekly Movement:
- Golf with friends.
- Bike rides from Redondo to El Porto.
- Muscle strengthening class.
- Daily stairs at home.
- Gardening.
- Walking to Hermosa Pier and back.
Typical Menu:
- Breakfast: Fruit (cantaloupe, mango, strawberries, blueberries and banana), yogurt, a scone and a cup of coffee.
- Lunch: A sandwich such as ham, avocado and cheese; a cup of Japanese noodles; or a burrito.
- Dinner: Salmon, veggies and noodles or rice.
- Snack: Yakult probiotic drink.
- Favorite Meal: Curry rice—a stew made with pork or chicken, carrots and potatoes over rice.
