Over 60 Dam | Fall 2025 Newsletter

Note from Roger

Dear Friends,

When I started Over 60 Dam, I asked myself one question: Why does this matter so much to me?

The answer is simple because people in our age group deserve more than clichés about slowing down. We deserve valuable information, clear guidance, and a community that values who we are and what we’ve lived through.

I’ve seen too many of us get overlooked in conversations about health, technology, money, and purpose. That’s why I created this platform. Not just to share tips, but to create a place where wisdom and practicality meet. Discover tools to stay strong, inspiring stories, and strategies to protect what you’ve worked hard for.

My passion comes from decades of experience leading, teaching, learning, and listening. I know what it feels like to want clarity, encouragement, and truth you can use today. That’s what Over 60 Dam is all about.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re proving that life after 60 isn’t about winding down, it’s about rising with strength, confidence, and purpose.

With gratitude,

Roger Campbell Sr.
Founder

Why Pickleball Is Such a Hit with the 60+ Crowd

Pickleball has rapidly become a favorite for those over 60, and there are plenty of good reasons why:

• Gentle on the joints — A smaller court and paddle make it easy on knees and hips.

• Great for balance & coordination — Quick lateral moves help strengthen reflexes and stability.

• Heart-healthy fun — Boosts cardiovascular health without overexerting.

• Sharpens the mind — Fast-paced strategy keeps your cognitive skills active.

• Social by nature — Doubles matches, casual rallies, and laughter are part of the game.
  (Philadelphia Magazine, eseosports.com)

• Sharpen Your Mind: Fast-paced strategy and quick decisions support cognitive flexibility and mental sharpness—excellent for brain health. (Real Simple, TIME)

• Social & Uplifting: Pickleball is as social as it is healthy—regular doubles games, casual competition, and shared laughter build connections and fend off loneliness. (Woman & Home, Verywell Health, Health)

• Low-Impact, Gentle on the Joints: Played on a smaller court with a slower pace, pickleball puts less strain on knees, hips, and joints. It’s a winning choice for longevity and movement comfort. (Woman & Home, TIME)

• Boosts Balance, Coordination & Strength: Quick lateral movements and reflexive play enhance balance, hand-eye coordination, flexibility, and overall stability—helping lower the risk of falls. (Rockstar Academy, Renown Health)

• Heart-Healthy Aerobic Benefits: You can raise your heart rate without overexertion, improving cardiovascular health, blood pressure, and cholesterol. (MUSC Health, Health, Banner Health)

• Sharpen Your Mind: Fast-paced strategy and quick decisions support cognitive flexibility and mental sharpness—excellent for brain health. (Real Simple, TIME)

• Social & Uplifting: Pickleball is as social as it is healthy—regular doubles games, casual competition, and shared laughter build connections and fend off loneliness. (Woman & Home, Verywell Health, Health)

Pickleball is more than a sport; it’s a powerful way to stay physically and mentally active, socially connected, and emotionally engaged. Whether in parks or dedicated courts, it’s accessible, inclusive, and full of energy, making it a perfect fit for the Over 60 Dam community.

Tech Made Simple: Write with ChatGPT

If you’ve ever sat down with a blank card and thought, “What should I write?” — you’re not alone. That’s where ChatGPT can help.

All you need to do is type something like:

“Write a short, warm birthday message for my sister who loves gardening.”

In seconds, you’ll get a thoughtful draft you can use as-is, or adjust to make it sound even more like you.

Why Should You Use It?

• 🖊 Saves Time – No more struggling with what to say.

• ❤️ Adds Heart – You can capture feelings that matter, without the stress.

• 👌 Keeps It Simple – You stay in control. ChatGPT suggests, but you decide what feels right.

• 💵 Saves Money – Instead of expensive cards, you can create your own notes and messages.

• ✨ Makes It Personal & Heartfelt – Perfect for family, friends, or even a thank-you note to a company that treated you well.

Think of it like having a helpful friend sitting next to you, whispering ideas. It doesn’t replace your voice; it helps you find the words you already have in your heart.

Money Corner: Scam Awareness

Beware of “Urgent” Requests.
If someone calls, emails, or texts you saying you must act immediately, whether it’s paying a bill, confirming your bank account, or claiming a prize, stop right there.

Scammers create a false sense of urgency to make you panic and act without thinking.
A legitimate business or government agency will never pressure you on the spot.

What to do:

• Hang up or ignore the message.

• Call the company or agency back using a phone number you know is real (from their website or your statement).

• Take a breath before you act. Time is your best defense.

Remember: Urgency is the scammer’s favorite weapon. Patience is your shield.

Healthy Living Recipe: Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Vegetables

Why it’s great for over 60:

• Lean protein from shrimp → supports muscle health

• Olive oil & garlic → heart-healthy & anti-inflammatory

• Vibrant veggies → antioxidants for energy and brain health

• Quick to make → under 20 minutes, one skillet

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined

• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips

• 1 small red onion, sliced thin

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and onion, cook until fragrant (1–2 minutes).

3. Add peppers and zucchini, sauté until just tender (4–5 minutes).

4. Push veggies to the side, add shrimp with remaining olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Cook shrimp 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

6. Squeeze lemon juice over the skillet, and toss everything together.

7. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Serving Tip - Serve with a small portion of brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for extra fiber. The mix of pink shrimp, red and yellow peppers, and green parsley makes it a colorful, restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for spring or summer.

Community Spotlight: Conversations with My Sisters

Philadelphia City & Surrounding Counties

• Senior Strut (Philadelphia) – October 14
  A fun, Mummers-led walk hosted by the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging at North Broad Street. Includes wellness screenings, flu shots, and snacks. Great for health and community connection. (Home Care Assistance Philadelphia)

• Pumpkinland at Linvilla Orchards & FallFest at Shady Brook Farm (Delaware & Bucks Counties)
  Festive fall destinations with pumpkins, harvest fun, and outdoor activities—perfect for a cozy fall outing. (Visit Philadelphia)

Bucks County

• Peddler’s Village Scarecrow Festival & Fall Fun
  September 13–14 through early fall
  A timeless fall tradition with scarecrow displays, local crafts, and festive shopping. A beautiful way to enjoy the harvest season. (Visit PA, Griswold)

• Apple Festival at Peddler’s Village
  Weekend of November 2–3
  Live music, pumpkin treats, professional pumpkin carvers, pie contests, and family-friendly fun. (Griswold)

Delaware County

• Fair Acres Annual Fall Fest
  October 18 (10 a.m. – 2 p.m)
  A warm, community-centered event featuring a mini flea market, food trucks, and a clothing drive—all supporting resident programs and social connection. (Delaware County)

• Healthy Steps for Older Adults – Fall Risk Awareness
  October 27
  A free, educational event for adults over 60 to learn balance tips, reduce fall risk, and improve overall wellness. (Main Line Health)

Chester County

• Chester County Active Seniors Games Night
  September 25
  A lively evening of games and socializing—ideal for staying engaged and meeting neighbors. (Eventbrite)

• Highland Orchards – Fall Season Activities
  Weekends through November
  Apple picking, hayrides, and a farm shop offering fresh pies, cider, and local goodies. (Preserve At Marsh Creek)

Montgomery County

• Montgomery County Senior Expo
  September 18
  A large-scale event at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center offering resources, health screenings, and social engagement opportunities. (Eventbrite)

• Montgomery Township Autumn Festival
  October 18 (Noon – 5 p.m)
  A community autumn celebration at William F. Maule Park—outdoor fun in a beautiful setting. (Montgomery Township, PA)

What’s Next

The Winter Newsletter is just around the corner, and I can’t wait to share what we’ve got planned. Here’s a preview of what’s coming:

• Books That Inspire & Guide – A curated list of powerful reads that can enrich your health, mindset, and daily life after 60.

• Next-Level AI Training – Simple, practical ways to use AI tools (like ChatGPT) every day, from meal planning to journaling to saving money.

• Winter Fun & Activities – Creative, uplifting things you can do during the colder months indoors and outdoors to keep your body active and your spirit warm.

Stay tuned, because Winter is going to bring fresh ideas, practical resources, and inspiration to carry you into the new year with strength and confidence.

Closing Thought

As the autumn air turns crisp and the colors around us shift, it’s a timely reminder that change can be beautiful and full of possibility. This season, let’s lean into actions that keep our minds sharp, protect our health, and connect us deeply to each other and the world.

That means staying informed, keeping doctor appointments, nourishing our bodies with colorful foods and gentle movement, and surrounding ourselves with uplifting energy. It’s about protecting our peace and intentionally filling our lives with purpose, connection, and joy.

And if you’re looking for a little extra inspiration between newsletters, check out Next Avenue—a thoughtful, PBS-powered platform filled with articles and stories that celebrate thriving over 60.

Because this isn’t just another chapter—it can be one of the richest. Keep growing, keep glowing, keep living with courage and heart.

Roger Campbell Sr., Founder, Over 60 Dam