Ann Root

Editor’s note: The Steamboat Pilot & Today asked readers to tell us about their favorite seniors over the age of 75 and then we asked these Super Seniors to share their secrets to living a long and healthy life. 

Ann Root

Age: 86

Super powers: Ann Root is a firm believer in the direct connection between physical activity and a senior’s physical health. She has worn many hats since she and the love of her life — husband, Bill — moved to Steamboat Springs in 1979. These hats include ranch wife and mother, avid horse woman, B&B owner, Parkinson’s support group member, student of yoga and daily fitness classes, budding bridge player, archeological digger, pretty darn good Alpine and Nordic skier, hiker, bike rider, museum volunteer, world traveler, grandmother, square dancer, gardener, snow shoveler, and the list goes on. But equally striking is the intangible depth and peacefulness of her spirit. She brings calm to the storm, is clear-sighted and wise amid chaos, and she has managed the sudden passing of her husband in the most gracious way. Through all of this, she has always found time for her community and individuals in need.

What are your secrets to a long and healthy life?

“I think definitely diet and exercise are important, and also growing older is inevitable, but growing old is not. I’m sure it’s been literally since childhood, and an approach to life in general, that I learned as a college student in physical education that age would affect the whole body, mind and person, and it has. I also want to mention my strong, strong family support — my family is wonderful.”