Q: I keep remembering both Bob Hope and George Burns lived to be 100. I am in my late 70s and would like to reach the same goal.

What was their secret?

A: I suspect it was their sense of humor, attitude and persistence. How each of us chooses to respond to daily events is our own doing. Our genes, health, wealth, family, environment and brain often confuse us.

We are able to maintain our sanity regardless of our choice as we all rationalize our actions. These men visualized their goals and focused on accomplishing them. As we age we often learn from others that they wished they had chosen to do something no longer possible because of health, loss of spouse, less financial ability or other valid reasons.

Elect now to enjoy the energies you have to create a life in which you are making a difference. Take a positive path, and eliminate the negatives, which affects your life. Don't give up the opportunity to for happiness by not using your energy to the fullest. In taking a positive approach to the challenges of the day we create a longer life.

Laughing reduces stress, which affects our immunity. Spontaneous belly laughs are best, and releases healthful bullets to maintain our sanity.

Owning pets is also an excellent way to keep you in good spirits. Dogs are outstanding. They need daily exercise, about which we procrastinate, which works for both partners as they keep you both enthusiastic and on schedule.

All of us has the option of choosing our attitude. I suspect both Hope and Burns chose humor because they recognized early on they had been given these professional talents. It certainly did not hurt their income. Thanks for the memories!

Q: I am scheduled for a major operation in July, and my doctor told me afterward he would be on vacation. He briefly said he would arrange for a hospitalist to take care of me while I was in the hospital. I never heard that word before. I am confused.

What is a hospitalist?

A: A hospitalist is simply is a doctor assigned to be responsible for patients while they are in the hospital. It simply means when your regular doctor is not available an on-duty a staff doctor who will take care of you.

Some patients are not pleased with this arrangement. Others feel comfortable because they understand there will be a 24-hour doctor available, especially in an emergency.

If you are not comfortable with his plan, you may be able to reschedule your operation until your doctor returns from vacation. This may not be possible based your health. Ask your doctor to explain in less complicated language how you would benefit by agreeing to accepting a hospitalist doctor. Frankly, in my opinion I would like to know that if something goes wrong, a doctor is available to help me.

Doug Mayberry lives in a retirement community in Southern California. Send your questions to him at deardoug@msn.com or write to him at P.O. Box 2649, Carlsbad, CA 92018.

© Copley News Service

Visit Copley News Service at www.copleynews.com.