Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to 117, exemplifies how a combination of genetic luck and a healthy lifestyle, including daily yogurt consumption, can contribute to exceptional longevity. Researchers studied her biological samples to distinguish age-related changes from health issues, revealing that short telomeres are not necessarily linked to disease, challenging previous assumptions. The findings offer insights into aging but are based on a single individual, highlighting the need for broader studies.
Hazel Baumberger, the oldest living South Dakotan at 109 years old, has been a lifelong admirer of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, attending since its inception in 1938, and remains a beloved figure in the rally community despite never riding a motorcycle herself.
Bob Fernandez, a Pearl Harbor survivor who lived to be 100 years old, has passed away. Fernandez was a teenager when he experienced the attack on Pearl Harbor, a pivotal event in World War II. His life and experiences serve as a testament to a significant period in military history.
Hilda Jaffe, a 102-year-old centenarian living independently in Manhattan, exemplifies resilience and active aging. Despite her age, she manages her daily tasks, stays socially engaged, and maintains a positive outlook on life. Jaffe attributes her longevity to genetics, luck, and a commitment to staying active. Her lifestyle includes regular physical activity, a simple diet, and active participation in cultural and social activities, demonstrating the potential for well-being in advanced age.
LaVerne Biser, a 105-year-old Texas resident, is preparing to witness his 13th total solar eclipse on April 8, a passion that began in his high school years. An engineer by trade, Biser and his late wife traveled the country to view eclipses, and he has meticulously planned his next viewing in Plano. He credits his longevity to a healthy lifestyle and is eagerly anticipating the beauty of the upcoming celestial event.
Edith Ceccarelli, at 116 years old, is the oldest known person in the United States and the second oldest on Earth. She has lived in Willits, California for most of her life, and the entire town has become like family to her. Last year, the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors proclaimed February 5th as a day to celebrate the county’s favorite daughter, and the community makes sure to celebrate her birthday each year.
Eugene Petersen, a 101-year-old retired U.S. Army sergeant major, credits his longevity to drinking Dr Pepper. He has a history of extensive service, including 59 years in the Army and 14 years with the U.S. Postal Service, and continues to volunteer at Travis Air Force Base's medical center. While other centenarians have attributed their long lives to various foods and habits, experts suggest that a combination of a healthy lifestyle, social connections, and a positive attitude are key factors in longevity.
Janet Gibbs, a centenarian who recently celebrated her 102nd birthday, shares her tips for living a long life. She emphasizes the importance of staying active, participating in sports like golf and lawn bowls, and maintaining an exercise routine. Gibbs also highlights the significance of having a positive attitude, spending time with friends and family, and following a healthy diet. She believes that staying mentally active by reading audiobooks contributes to overall well-being. Researchers support her advice, as studies show that regular exercise and social connections can lower the risk of various health issues.
The author reflects on her centenarian father's healthy lifestyle and incorporates Blue Zone principles into her own life, including eating in moderation, exercising frequently, reducing stress, having a sense of purpose, and maintaining strong connections with family and friends. She hopes to live a long and healthy life like her father.
Scientists are studying Maria Branyas, a 116-year-old woman from San Francisco, to uncover the secrets of her long and healthy life. Branyas, the oldest person in the world, has no major health issues and has survived numerous historical events. Researchers have taken DNA samples to analyze her genes and lifestyle factors that contribute to her longevity. The study aims to develop drugs to combat age-related diseases such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular conditions.
Dorothy Hoffner, a 104-year-old woman from Chicago, recently went skydiving for the second time, becoming the oldest person in the world to do so. Having survived both the Spanish flu and Covid pandemics, Hoffner decided to recapture the feeling of gliding through the air. With an instructor by her side, she jumped off a plane at 10,000 feet and described the experience as "wonderful." Despite the national attention she received, Hoffner remains humble, stating that people are only interested because of her age. She is known for her adventurous spirit, having traveled extensively and enjoyed various experiences throughout her life.
Dr. Howard Tucker, a 101-year-old neurologist who still works full-time, shared his daily diet on a podcast. He mainly consumes fruits, vegetables, and fish, following an "everything-in-moderation" approach. Tucker stays active by running on a treadmill and attributes his longevity to maintaining an interest in the world, having loving relationships, and a youthful mindset. His typical dinner aligns with the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits.
"The Book of Charlie" is a new book by David Von Drehle that tells the story of his centenarian neighbor, Charles White III, who lived to be 109 years old. White's life was full of amazing experiences, from building his own radio to becoming one of the first anesthesiologists in Kansas City. He was known for his wisdom and life philosophy of doing the right thing. White's legacy lives on through his friendships, family, and even his beloved 1967 Mustang.
Apo Whang-Od, a 106-year-old indigenous Kalinga woman and legendary tattoo artist, has become the newest cover model of Vogue Philippines. Known for her traditional tattooing technique, called batok, Whang-Od has been practicing her art since she was a teen. She has trained her grand-nieces to follow in her footsteps as a mambabatok. Whang-Od's popularity has helped keep her town on the map, drawing tattoo fans and tourists to her rural outpost.
