ACTIVE AGING — AT ANY AGE
only misses when he is sick, which is seldom. Even during those 3 ½ years of caregiving for his wife, he rarely missed a day to exercise.
When it comes to his exercise, Dewey isn’t on his own. Like all Providence communities, a Well- Being instructor helps residents
optimize their health safely. His Royal Park Place Well-Being fitness instructor Sara Doezema says Dewey’s fortitude makes a difference to his neighbors at the community. “Dewey
“Dewey is kind of a legend here,” Sara says. “People say, ‘If Dewey did it, I can try.’”
is kind of a legend here,” Sara says. “People say, ‘If Dewey did it, I can try.’ They talk about how strong his handshake is. They’ll say, ‘If only I pull these weights, maybe I’ll get strong, too.’ He’s an inspiration.” His sons and daughters-in-law are frequent visitors, and they say Dewey is doing just fine on his own. After all, Dewey has a long history of surpassing expectations and overcoming obstacles. He taught himself Morse code at age 9 (and still remembers it), a skill that came in handy when he served as a radioman in the Navy during World War II. His strength of body, mind, and spirit have helped him throughout his life, but he says nothing has sustained him like his relationship with God.
Dewey insists there is no secret to long life. “It’s just what you find in Proverbs,” Dewey says. “’Trust in the Lord with all your heart. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths.’ I just let Him lead me.” He knows that at 100 years old, God has a plan for each day of his life, and he plans to live every moment to his fullest potential. “I hope I am making an impact here,” Dewey says. If you ask anyone who knows him, they will tell you he certainly is. Dewey’s can-do attitude shines as he uses the Can-Do Pedaling Machine in the Royal Park Place Fitness Room.
“It keeps my body strong,” he says. “I feel that the Lord has total control of my life. He gave me this body, so I feel that He would have me keep this body active and fed properly.”
DEWEY FERMAN’S EXERCISE ROUTINEWEIGHT MACHINE
Lift 80 pounds to full arm extension 30 TIMES RECUMBENT BIKE 5 minutes Can-Do Pedaling Machine (“arm-bike”) 30 TIMES EACH DIRECTION WALKING Walk around the top floor of Royal Park Place 30 MINUTES
14 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 2
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