At 75, Jim is challenging stereotypes and redefining what aging looks like
Why the path to lifelong vitality begins with a proactive health approach
At 75, Jim, a long-time Medcan client, is energetic, vibrant, and still deeply engaged in his career. He’s not slowing down and believes society needs to rethink its assumptions about aging altogether. “People get down on aging, yet we’re all living healthier for longer,” Jim says. “If you can still contribute, why would you not?”
For the past two years, Jim has been working on an ambitious project to develop Canada’s new high-speed rail service, connecting Toronto to Quebec City. And recently, he relaunched his communication business where he teaches executives how to be expert speakers.
Jim credits his great health at age 75 to the comprehensive preventative care he’s received as a Medcan Dedicated Care client, over the last 15 years. He discovered Medcan through a friend who knew he was struggling to find a family doctor and recommended the Toronto clinic. "I checked it out and loved it right away. And for the past 15 years, I've been a member.”
Health is the ultimate investment
Jim’s perspective on health is inspiring. He makes the point that we all work hard, and we all make and spend money, but health is the most valuable investment anyone can make. This attitude is why he’s always prioritized the care he gets.
He believes it’s a commitment that’s paid off. “At 75, most people think I don’t look 75. I certainly don’t act 75,” Jim says. “Part of my health and longevity has to do with the great care I’ve gotten at Medcan.”
Jim’s proactive approach to health has also become even more important as he has gotten older. He’s watched others in his age group struggle with health challenges, including a close friend that passed away suddenly. “I had a very good friend drop dead of a heart attack a year ago. It freaked me out,” Jim admits. “So, I’ve been paying extra attention to my ticker.”
Medcan’s preventative approach has helped Jim stay ahead by tracking all his critical biomarkers, including his cardiovascular metrics. An important part of his care has been Medcan’s Annual Health Assessment, an evidence-based, physician-led analysis that analyses over 100 biomarkers evaluated across 15 specialized stations in a single-day visit. This comprehensive assessment delivers deep insights into every aspect of your health to identify risk factors and provide personalized recommendations.
He also says that as a member of Medcan’s Dedicated Care program, his relationship with his personal physician, Dr. John Murray, has been central to his care. “He knows my bloodwork and is able to connect me with specialists,” Jim explains. “When you go to Medcan, you get the specialized comprehensive care you need.”
All this has given Jim peace of mind because he knows he’s doing everything possible to protect and enhance his health. One other bonus, he says, is the time he’s gotten back in his schedule. “Medcan saves me an enormous amount of time, and time is money.”
“Health is the best investment anyone can make.”Jim, Medcan Dedicated Care client
Challenging ageism
Jim’s story also shines a light on ageism. Recently, he attended a conference for work, and a young woman asked him why he still worked at 75. “If you’re old, people feel it’s okay to ask you these questions.”
While he believes ageism exists, he’s also convinced that attitudes will soon change. “A generation from now we’re all going to be saying, ‘Remember when the retirement age was 65 and how crazy that was?’ Like, 65 - that’s young.”
For Jim, staying active isn’t just about work. It’s about purpose. He says he’s the type of person that would like to ‘die with his boots on.’ But, at age 75, he’s more enthusiastic about life and the opportunities in front of him than he’s ever been.
Health is a gift and getting older is too
Jim’s story is a reminder that health is a gift, and one that every person has a great deal of control over. He’s proof that aging doesn’t have to mean slowing down. It also doesn’t have to be defined by sickness and health struggles. With proactive care and a commitment to health, it can mean living better, longer - and redefining what’s possible.
Take action
Join Jim, and thousands like him, who are taking a proactive approach by learning more about our Dedicated Care program. Membership gives you access to a dedicated physician and care team at Medcan, along with same-day response to urgent medical inquires and extended physician visits, as well as a host of other benefits.
If you are not yet a Medcan member, you can also take advantage of our Annual Health Assessment, to gain a comprehensive view of your health in a single-day visit. This extensive evaluation reviews over 100 biomarkers and includes a physician exam, ultrasounds, and more, to give you a personalized plan to address your unique health needs.
Related services
Medcan offers comprehensive solutions for proactive health management. Become an ongoing care member, where you can choose the level of care right for you and receive preferred rates on services such as our Annual Health Assessment, Enhanced Screenings, Men’s or Women’s Health Programs, and more.