odd cichlid behavior

Question
I've had my cichlid for about 7 years now, and in the past few days, it's behavior has been odd, if not erratic at best.  I do my best in keeping up with the pH and keeping up with ammonia levels and all seem to be just fine.  i have replaced the filters (Sunday Feb 3) and continue to do so about once every 3 months.  Last night, I was awoken by the splashing coming from my 33 gal aquarium at about 3am.  My African cichlid was speeding around the tank, crashing into the rocks and other features (skull, faux log) as well as doing "ballerina" twirls both right side up and upside down.  When I awoke to this, I turned on the light and it seemed to be doing the same crazy thing.  I am afraid to think of the worst, but it could possibly be on it's last fins.  It looks very "flustered" and seems to be panting and overall acting strange.  I measured the pH and ammonia levels again this evening (2/5), and the readings came out 7.8 and 0.1 respectively.  Any advice on the matter would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Eric,
Besides the fact that Cichlids normally only live between 7-10 years, it sounds like you need to do more water changes. Also - when you change filters, keep in the old filter for at least a week with a new one so you don't take out so much beneficial bacteria - which lives in your filter.
You have kept him alive for a very long time and if it is just his time to go then I'm sorry you have to lose him, but at least he had a good long life with you and I hope you get to enjoy him for a while longer.