Mr. R. is an incredible specimen.
He is 88 years young, runs, lifts weights, works part time at a health club and is a volunteer track and field official for high school and college meets.
I saw him the other day.
Me: Have you been up to anything new lately?
Patient: No, my younger brother was just here from New York for a visit. It was pretty sad. I hadn't seen him for about two years and he's really let himself go. I told him so.
Me: What's going on?
Patient: I don't really know. He doesn't really give me details on his medical problems but he has terrible teeth, has trouble with his eyes, macular degeneration I think, walks with a walker and wears Depends.
Me: How old is he?
Patient: He's 83, 5 years younger than me.
Me: Well, you probably just need to give him a break. You're in amazing health for someone 88 years old and I know you're very thankful for your health. The description of your brother describes most of the 83 year old patients I see here everyday. You're a tough act to follow.
He nodded but I don't think he agreed with me.
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