Art of Aging: Just Loaf'n

NEWTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- Thelma Caputa bought Just Loaf'n Bakery at the Newtown Farmer's Market eight years ago, making her a first time business owner at the age of 75.

She says, "I'm going to be 84 and I don't feel 84, and I think you have to be active, have positive feelings all the time, and keep in touch with people."

Thelma started working at the bakery 18-years-ago. It was a way to stay busy after her husband passed away. But when the previous owners decided to move to Vermont, they asked their long-time employee if she want to buy the place.

"In my mind I said, 'No way did I want that responsibility.' But then my son said, 'You got to do it mom.' So I did, and I've managed all these years," said Thelma.

When she was younger, Thelma worked in the insurance industry. Not only had she never run her own business, she had no experience baking.

"I don't bake myself, but I enjoy good baked goods. So I try to find the best for my customers. We have artisans' breads, pastries, homemade pies, and homemade cookies," said Thelma.

Thursday through Saturday, she works at the bakery. Sunday through Wednesday, she takes orders and handles company finances from home. And she says there are definite perks to being your own boss.

"Well, I can do what I want, when I want, she laughs. That's the main thing. If I want to take off, I do it," added Thelma.

And especially if your children or your grandchildren ask you to go on vacation or come to visit, do it.

Thelma is a mother of 4, a grandmother of 8 and a great grandmother of 6.

Her advice to other seniors living the retired life.

"Well, if your health is good, I think you should maybe look for a little part time job, if you're a little bored at home, and you don't know what to do, there's plenty of places you can go and get a job, said Thelma.

She says she wouldn't spend her days any other way.

"Someone called me one day and I said, "Just Loaf'n, may I help you?" and he said "Aren't you supposed to be working?" laughs Thelma.