100-Year-Olds Share Secrets to Living Longer, Happier

The oldest among us are feeling younger than ever, and they have some surprising advice for the rest of us.

UnitedHealthcare recently interviewed 100 people who've reached the milestone age of 100. The findings reveal a stunning shift: today's centenarians feel an average of 68 years old, compared to 79 just a decade ago.

What changed? These remarkable seniors have adopted habits that keep both body and mind sharp.

Today's 100-year-olds are hitting the gym more than ever before. Far more are doing regular strength training and monitoring their diet compared to 2015. Meditation has jumped from 29% to 42%, with one centenarian noting, "Staying active keeps my heart strong, mind sharp, body moving, spirit high, and health steady every day."

Perhaps most surprising is their embrace of modern technology. About 27% are experimenting with ChatGPT and other AI tools. A stunning 40% regularly play video games, shattering stereotypes about seniors clinging to the past.

But the physical habits are only part of the story. Eighty-five percent of respondents said they laugh often and find humor comes easily to them. "A good belly laugh can make you feel better than any pill, I'll tell you that," one shared.

Family and friends emerged as crucial to their longevity. Seventy-eight percent credit regularly spending time with loved ones as key to their vigor at 100. "They are everything to me," one said. "Life is short; you never know when it'll be the last day."

When asked about their "best decade," the answers revealed that every age brings something special. Your 20s offer freedom and exploration, while your 30s and 40s center on family. The 50s and 60s shine for community and friendship, and the 70s and beyond bring contentment in simple joys.

Why This Inspires

These centenarians prove that aging doesn't mean slowing down or giving up. Their advice is refreshingly simple: don't worry so much, move your body, spend time with loved ones, and stay true to yourself. The difference is they have the wisdom and urgency to really mean it.

"If you don't ask, you don't get," one advised, encouraging everyone to go after what they truly want.

The trends point toward an even brighter future, with tomorrow's centenarians likely to be more focused on health, finding more joy, and feeling younger than the generation before them.