Meet Julie
At nearly 70 years old, Julie Schuler continues to prove that independence, wellness, and personal growth do not have an age limit. A resident of the Indianola area since 1983, Julie recently completed an abbreviated training program at the Orientation Center for the Blind, where she strengthened her braille skills and brushed up on cane travel.
Julie shares that learning braille was initially intimidating, but she has embraced the challenge. She is excited to continue advancing her skills and has begun practicing with her grandchildren, who live next door. One of her biggest goals is being able to read books to her grandson — something she says she was never able to do when raising her own children.
Julie’s story reflects the spirit of Older Americans Month and this year’s theme, Champion Your Health, which encourages older adults to take an active role in their well-being and independence. After losing her husband in 2022 and spending a year in rehabilitation following a serious fall, Julie made a conscious decision to focus on her health and future. Today, she goes to the gym four days a week, attends fitness classes, walks regularly, and continues building her strength and endurance.
Her story is a reminder that aging and vision loss do not have to stand in the way of learning new skills, staying active, and pursuing personal goals at every stage of life.
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Learn more about Older Americans Month
Learn more about our Independent Living Program