Health
Unlock Longevity: Centenarians Share Secrets to a Fulfilling Life
The quest for the secret to a long and fulfilling life has led many to seek the wisdom of those who have lived a century or more. In a bid to uncover these secrets, CNBC Make It spoke to centenarians and those nearing the age of 100. The insights they shared could be the keys to unlocking a long and happy life.
Dr. Gladys McGarey, 102, emphasizes the importance of having a purpose in life. “You don’t find that if you’re not looking for it,” she shares. In her book, “The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age,” she highlights the significance of purpose. She advocates for “living medicine,” a concept that views disease and pain as teachers, guiding us to understand and manage our ailments better.
While on the journey to discover your purpose, you often find your community, McGarey explains. “There are people who come and go in your lives, but you choose the ones who really help to support you.” This idea aligns with an 85-year Harvard study that identified “social fitness” as a key to longevity and happiness. It involves objectively assessing our relationships and making necessary adjustments to become better friends and partners. McGarey also advises not to get stuck in difficult times, but instead, to seek the light that’s always present.
Margaret Stretton, who lived to be 100, shares her experience of remaining active and engaged in her community. “I became a sacristan and didn’t retire from that until I was 99,” she told The Guardian. Despite attributing her longevity to luck, Stretton’s various interests kept her motivated and active, particularly in fundraising. Even at 100, she continues to contribute to her community by making preserves and marmalade for a local charity. A study by the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research supports this approach, associating part-time work with improved cognitive function in those aged 40 and above.
Larry Janisse, 98, attributes his youthful spirit to humor. “You got to have good booze and hot women, and that takes care of it,” he jokes. Janisse enjoys spending time with friends, meeting new people, and cherishing time with his large family. He believes in the power of laughter and the importance of seeking advice from loved ones when faced with stress.
Roslyn Menaker, 103, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. She finds joy in her daily walks, her stylish wardrobe, and dining out. “I love to look at beautiful clothes and eat out,” she shares. “I have an amazing caregiver. She gives me manicures and pedicures, and colors my hair.”
Walking is also a top tip for longevity from Malcom Idelson, 94. “I try to walk every day, without excuse,” he says. “I look forward to it. I’m often a little down and I say, ‘Let me get out and walk,’ and I feel so much better.” Research supports this, indicating that walking 10,000 steps a day for 30 minutes at a brisk pace can contribute to a longer life and lower risk of severe disease and death. Idelson, a lifelong walker, shares that he rarely used elevators or taxis and would walk wherever possible. “I was a walker, up the steps. [I] ran up and down. Everyone knew it. It was just in my blood.”
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