Powering Through with Tai Chi: 96 Year Old Korean War Veteran Still Training

At 96 years old, one wouldn’t blame Guy Pollack if he wished to take it easy, enjoying his sunset years relaxing in a rocking chair. 

But Pollack will have none of that. 

Pollack, a Korean War veteran, powers through Tai Chi classes every Monday at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Pollack has used the VA facility for his medical needs for years, but recently decided to give Tai Chi a try. Part of his physical therapy routine, Pollack told VA News that he would rather attend the classes in person than participate online, alone, at home. 

His son, William, drives him to the VA every week so he can enjoy the workouts with other veterans. 

Active at Any Age

For Pollack, age is just a number. 

“Staying active is very important for me,” Pollack said. “It helps me with my mental health and not being bored all the time. It helps me get exercise and get out and meet other people and see other things around other than the house.”

Master Ranèe Lovelace instructs the Tai Chi class. Lovelace didn’t serve in the military, but she comes from a family of civil servants. Her father spent time in the Army as a drill sergeant, and her mom built a career as a nurse. Lovelace, having watched her parents give back to their country, believes it’s her time to give back. 

“What I find rewarding is when I see improvement in mind and body. When they feel safe in the space we are in,” Lovelace said. “Having moments when we have fun, and they realize they have learned a movement unknowingly.”

Classes are often held outside when the weather permits, and William Pollack sees how the routine helps his father. The 96-year-old is keeping active, enjoying fresh air and sunshine, while talking to other veterans. 

Pollack tried online Tai Chi courses but enjoys a better experience attending in-person. 

“I can see and hear the instructor better than online, which helps me complete the exercises better and hopefully learn the procedures quicker,” he said. 

Physical, Mental Advantages 

Pollack has already noticed physical improvements with better balance and stamina. Socially, the weekly meetings connect him with new friends. 

Focusing on balance is a key component of Tai Chi. Since she works with many aging veterans, Lovelace makes balance a core principle of her classes, as it can help attendees like Pollack reduce the risk of falls. 

In one of her sessions, a student found it difficult to perform an exercise. Lovelace asked if he could place his foot at a 45-degree angle to see if it would help. The veteran gave it a shot and nailed the routine. 

“I was ready to modify the placement, but he took his foot off and placed it at a 45-degree angle,” Lovelace said. “I’m still laughing years later. His balance was amazing!”

Tai Chi is part of the VA’s Whole Health Program, which aims for a more comprehensive approach to care than previous plans. Whole Health tries to target each veteran’s unique needs and well-being. Realizing that one size does not fit all when it comes to healthcare, the VA shifted its approach to offer a personalized touch, allowing the veteran more control over their care. Focusing on holistic ideals, Whole Health pinpoints veterans’ physical, mental, and emotional needs.