A friend of mine, I'll call her Bernie, recently estimated the projected cost of her medications after retirement. Alarmed at the impact on a fixed and reduced income, she was motivated to investigate the local fitness clubs with the goal of eliminating her need for prescriptions. 

She chose to contract with a personal trainer and meet with a dietician. Her regimen includes weight training workouts 3-4 times per week interspersed with a simple walk around the exercise area after each set of repetitions due to her limited aerobic capacity. The dietician prescribed a diet of five small meals per day from a wide selection of foods utilizing reasonable portion control.
 
After 2 1/2 months on the program, Bernie has decreased her diabetes and acid reflux medications by half. She has lost 29 pounds without hunger and is capable of adding exercises to her repertoire including some that her lack of flexibility had prevented. Progress and increased vitality are motivators. A decrease in cholesterol and blood pressure medications at her next check up would be a step toward realizing her goal. 
 
Accepting the guidance of a personal trainer has made all the difference according to Bernie. They have developed a relationship which requires accountability on the part of the client and the trainer. "Even though he is young, he knows what he is doing", she says. 
 
Encouraging stories like Bernie's illustrate how a commitment to a lifestyle change can afford significant results both in regard to health and finances. Might we all be more mindful of our individual and collective responsibilities in light of the cost of care and the state of the economy?