A common misconception about retiring is that it means doing nothing. However, one Kirkland resident defies the stereotype and can’t seem to stand still for one moment.

At 94 years old, Merrill Gardens resident Dorothy “Dotty” Cacchione has used the extra time that retirement has given her to expand her horizons in active new pursuits.

“You don’t just retire, you retire from doing old things,” said Dotty.

Growing up in Mt. Vernon, N.Y., Dotty was always an active participant in many sports like basketball, volleyball, and track and field. Up until her retirement, Dotty was an active traveler as well.

While she doesn’t travel as much, not even retirement could stop Dotty’s bustling lifestyle. Well into her nineties, Dotty continues to remain as lively as ever. Swimming every other Saturday and participating in weekly Zumba and y oga classes, Dotty hasn’t skipped a beat to keep her days animated and herself healthy.

“Without some sort of exercise, you just become stagnant,” said Dotty, who disapproves of a lazy and inactive retirement. “My doctor said that as I get older, I get better,” jokes Dotty.

Sticking to a moderated diet of protein, carbs, and fat, Dotty is clinically in the best health she has ever been nib despite being diagnosed with diabetes four years ago. Old age and diabetes haven’t been able to undermine Dotty’s love of life and will to keep going.

“Today is all you got,” affirms Dotty, whose general attitude towards life is to “get up each day and live it to the fullest.”

A true inspiration to all, Dotty is a clear indicator of how life doesn’t stop at retirement, it just begins.