JoCleta Wilson starts her day at 4 a.m., leaping from the warmth of her bed to brew coffee and apply makeup before heading to her job at Home Depot. At 100 years old, she embraces work not just for a paycheck, but for vitality. Wilson believes that staying engaged keeps her sharp and focused, a sentiment echoed by various studies that link active living to longevity.
Research led by Deborah Carr, the director of the Center for Innovation in Social Science, underscores the benefits of remaining active. Engaging in work, hobbies, social activities, or volunteer work can significantly enhance mental and physical health, promoting a fulfilling life.
Further studies suggest a fulfilling professional life contributes to longevity, while volunteering can slow biological aging. Regular social interactions are also shown to greatly reduce the risk of premature death, cultivating a robust sense of purpose in individuals.
Wilson, as the oldest employee at her store, relishes her 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. shifts, which keep her on her feet and socially engaged. She enjoys helping customers, finding joy in initiating smiles and positive interactions. “To make people smile and be a light in their day — that’s very important to me,” she says, reflecting her vibrant spirit.
In her free time, Wilson indulges in dancing, painting, playing piano, and cooking, affirming her commitment to staying busy. She writes daily to-do lists, creatively weaving structure into her routine. Professor Carr notes that staying active provides elderly individuals, especially those on their own, with protective benefits against loneliness, a condition linked to numerous health risks.
She advises that older adults should pursue activities they’re capable of, suggesting adaptive options such as chair yoga for those with mobility limitations. All across America, centenarians are living proof of the benefits of an active lifestyle. Virginia Oliver, 104, still hauls lobster traps, while others like Hilda Jaffe, 102, walk thousands of steps and volunteer regularly.
Deborah Szekely, 102, continues to work at her wellness business, stressing that purpose is essential for longevity. Her advice encompasses establishing routines and fostering connections with friends to keep busy. Those who prefer solitude can engage in hobbies such as reading. “I read, read, read,” she declares, highlighting the joy of continuous learning.
Bill Youman, 83, dedicates himself to volunteering and acknowledges its impact on his health. He delivers meals to those in need, finding fulfilment in the smiles he receives. “Everybody feels better when they help other people,” he expresses, sharing the joy he finds in altruism.
Professor Karl Pillemer adds that volunteering substantially reduces mortality risk, attributing unique benefits to well-being. However, he points out that obstacles like age discrimination can hinder older adults from engaging fully in society. Wilson, however, believes in the possibility for everyone to forge connections as they age, stating, “There is something everyone can find and do. Keep pushing yourself.”
Centenarian JoCleta Wilson emphasises that staying busy, through work and social activities, can enhance longevity. Research supports that engaging in meaningful tasks fosters mental and physical well-being. Volunteering and interactions significantly lower risks of premature death, promoting a strong sense of purpose essential for a fulfilling life. This sentiment is echoed by various centenarians thriving through active lifestyles.
The article highlights the importance of staying active for longevity, as shared by centenarians like JoCleta Wilson. Engaging in work, hobbies, volunteering, and socializing contributes to good mental and physical health. Studies indicate these activities enhance a sense of purpose, ultimately leading to a longer, healthier life. Wilson’s vibrant lifestyle exemplifies how creativity and connection can stave off loneliness and promote vitality in older adults.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
