We’ve all heard the old saying that age is nothing but a number, but today the adage is ringing truer than ever before.

As the face of aging continues to change, more and more seniors have decided that retirement is no reason to slow down as they travel the world, embark on new careers, lend a hand in their communities and offer their talents and expertise to their favorite charitable organizations. The 2011 class of Ageless-Remarkable St. Louisans — which includes two south county residents — is no exception, as each honoree embodies the active and engaged spirit that is being embraced by countless numbers of older adults nationwide.

Ageless 2011 honoree Jean Woodard, of Concord, embarked on a new career at age 53 when she completed her nursing degree. Today, at age 90, she continues to provide nursing care to patients at St. Anthony’s Medical center as an emergency department volunteer. Working each weekend and most holidays, Jean performs a variety of tasks, from delivering warm blankets and changing linens to pushing wheelchairs and spending one-on-one time with patients.

Ageless 2011 honoree Charles H. Hoessle, 80, of Concord, served as director of the St. Louis Zoo for 20 years. Since his retirement in 2002, he has served as the organization’s director emeritus, and his leadership played a fundamental role in the development of zoo exhibits such as the River’s Edge, Penguin & Puffin Coast and the Emerson Children’s Zoo.

Today, he continues his support of the St. Louis Zoo and its mission as a regular speaker at Zoo events and through his work to cultivate major donors. He’s also served on more than a dozen civic boards and commissions, traveled to seven continents and is currently on a mission to visit all of the nation’s national parks.

These incredible individuals are among a group of 20 older adults that will be recognized at the St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System’s ninth annual Ageless-Remarkable St. Louisans gala. St. Louis-based Wells Fargo Advisors is the presenting sponsor for the special event, which will take place Sunday, Nov. 6, at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch.