What if this decade you decide to build healthier habits? It doesn’t have to mean overhauling everything at once. Instead, it’s about making small, manageable changes, finding the right support, and staying consistent through challenges. Committing to your health is one of the most valuable investments you can make.
It’s possible. Just ask James, a longtime Harrison client who made this commitment over two decades ago and is now physically and mentally thriving at 66.
This is our Health Decade
When you hear that James is 66, you might picture a typical retiree, but you’ll quickly learn he is far from it. He’s redefining aging with a focus on quality and purpose.
James’ journey to healthy aging began nearly two decades ago when he and his wife committed to making the next ten years their “health decade.” That decision led James to a clinic focused on prevention-based care.
“We were looking for a clinic that really focused on personalized care, preventing illness and catching disease early. But there just wasn’t anything like that until Copeman Healthcare.”
James joined Copeman Healthcare in its early days, a clinic founded by Don Copeman, who later established Harrison Healthcare. It was during this time that James met the team he continues to work with today at Harrison Healthcare.
Early in their partnership, Dr. Tasha Bienert diagnosed James with prediabetes. For some, such a diagnosis might seem abstract or like a distant concern. But for James, it served as a powerful wake-up call and an opportunity to rewrite the trajectory of his health and steer clear of the cascade of lifestyle diseases that can follow. Dr. Bienert celebrates, “due to his weight loss, exercise, and healthier nutrition James reversed his prediabetes without medication!”
He’s since kept at it. Many years later, James isn’t just maintaining those changes—he’s building on them, proving that prevention isn’t a one-time choice but a long-term commitment. Thismindset not only supports his current well-being but also sets the foundation for a healthier future.
But even for the most dedicated and driven, life comes with setbacks.
Life is Not Without Challenges
James is, without a doubt, one of the most optimistic individuals I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with. His commitment to maintaining this positive outlook has only grown stronger over the years. When we first spoke in 2013, he had recently reversed his prediabetes diagnosis and was fully immersed in a fitness journey centered around cycling.
Since then, life has presented him with incredible joy, but also a significant injury that temporarily set back his progress. During his recovery, he became less active, leading to some muscle loss and weight gain. He also acknowledges the role age played during this time.
“Injuries are inevitable as you get older and health is never guaranteed. The question is: do you stop, or do you adapt? For me, giving up isn’t an option,” says James.
That mindset didn’t come out of nowhere. It’s the product of years spent honing his mental approach to stress and adversity. “I’ve learned to frame stress as a puzzle to solve, not a problem to fear. Instead of spiraling into worry, I ask myself, ‘How do I want to approach this?’”
He highlights that resilience is rarely effortless. True appreciation for achievement, he explains, often emerges only after confronting the underlying challenges. He encourages the use of tools such as physical therapy and professional care for those in need, helping to address deeper issues and pave the way for meaningful, lasting change.
Appreciation and acknowledgement of achievement is a key part of his approach, a perspective he has embraced for years. He often references the bestselling book “The Gap and the Gain,” which encourages focusing on how far you’ve come, not how far you have left to go. That shift—from fixating on the gap to appreciating the gain—has deepened his commitment to the enjoyment of life and reshaped his approach to progress and setbacks alike.
Adjusting, Healing, and Thriving: James’ Wellness Journey
A shoulder injury disrupted James’ fitness journey, but with support from his Harrison team, he rebuilt his health step by step.
“My body’s needs have evolved with age, so my fitness, nutrition, and mental health strategies also needed to adapt,” says James.
Building muscle and increasing strength became a primary focus, along with nutrition. With the expertise of Registered Dietitian, Sarah Ware, the first major step was a transition to a Mediterranean/Keto-inspired lifestyle. It wasn’t about following a restrictive diet but finding a long-term approach.“As I age, I adjust my lifestyle because there’s less forgiveness. I’ve reduced carbs because I don’t think I need them and it works for me. I want something sustainable, not a quick fix,” he explains.
James, a passionate cyclist, mixes yoga and other sports into his routine to stay active. For him, cycling isn’t just about the physical benefits—it’s also a mental challenge. “You have to stay focused the whole ride, and the boost in blood flow is great for brain health,” he says.
As active as he was, James realized his routine needed more strength-building activities to support his long-term health. Combining his own fitness knowledge with the support of his Harrison Exercise Physiologist, Patric Gonçalves, he added Pilates and resistance training, knowing their benefits in preventing age-related issues, specifically sarcopenia. James appreciates how Pilates strengthens his body while protecting his shoulder.
“I’ve read a lot of evidence that strength training reduces the risk of dementia, so I make it a priority. I’m conscious of my left shoulder, but I don’t let it stop me.” he says.
“If I stop moving, I’ll stagnate—and I refuse to give my body that chance,” he adds.
Reclaimed Health
The results of his dedication have been remarkable. Over the past year, James has dropped 7kg of fat while gaining muscle, moving from the 20th to the 70th percentile for muscle mass in his age group. His grip strength, a key indicator of overall vitality, has significantly increased by 6kg. “Grip strength is linked to longevity, better cardiovascular health, and a lower risk of chronic illnesses,” explains Patric. These improvements reflect greater functional health and resilience, essential for maintaining independence and quality of life.
For James, it’s about more than just fitness metrics. “Health is a balance of mental, emotional, and physical health,” he reflects. His journey has been one of constant adjustment and learning, with the support of his Harrison team guiding his efforts. After every appointment, James takes home something new to work on.
Dr. Tasha Bienert, who has worked closely with James for over a decade, highlights his mindset. “He’s always receptive to discussions about how to enhance his health. His motivation is unwavering,” she says.
Finding Joy in Creativity and Connection
For James, balance goes beyond fitness and nutrition. Nature, creativity, and meaningful relationships are his foundation. Over 14 years, he and his wife have cultivated a peaceful garden sanctuary, sharing it with others, including individuals living with dementia or terminal illnesses. “Seeing our garden bring comfort to others is deeply fulfilling,” he says.
For James, gardening is much more than a task, it’s a way to be creative. From designing gardens to carefully maintaining them or shaping the landscape, each task gives him a sense of calm and fulfillment.
Lessons for a Lifetime
James’ journey is a testament to the power of positivity, adaptability, and intentional living. “I want to live a youthful life no matter my age,” he says.
With Harrison Healthcare as his partner, he’s built a lifestyle that supports long-term health and wellness. “The team at Harrison has been instrumental in helping me focus on what’s important, stay ahead of possible health issues and keep improving.”
At 66, he’s living proof that taking charge of your health can keep you thriving at any age. He’s determined to make the most of every day—with strength, purpose, and focusing on the joy of life.
