Life at 100: Centenarians Share Their Secrets to Living a Long, Happy Life

What does it really mean to live a long, fulfilling life? In this touching and insightful video, five centenarians - each over 100 years old - share their stories, wisdom, and the lessons that have guided them through more than a century of living.

From surviving the Great Depression and serving during World War II to embracing love, loss, and technological change, their reflections offer a powerful reminder of what truly matters.

They speak candidly about the importance of persistence, positivity, and purpose and how staying curious, connected, and compassionate helps them continue to thrive well past 100.

Highlights from the Conversation

• Positive Thinking & Persistence: A “corny thing called positive thinking” keeps them moving forward. They never gave up on their goals, no matter how small or large.

• Love & Connection: Lasting relationships, mutual respect, and kindness are the heart of a meaningful life. As one centenarian said, “Love has more meaning than the sexual portion — it’s about like-mindedness and living life together.”

• Coping with Loss: They acknowledge the deep pain of outliving loved ones but remind us that “life goes on — so get on and do the things you love to do.”

• Adapting to Change: From rotary phones to smartphones, they marvel at the transformation technology has brought — and the importance of using it wisely.

• Staying Healthy: Exercise, balanced eating, and staying active both physically and mentally are common threads in their longevity. “Don’t let the old man in,” one said. “Think young, and you’ll act young.”

• Money Lessons: Be patient, invest wisely, and save for the future. Even small, consistent efforts add up over time.

• Secrets to Longevity: A love of life, helping others, gratitude, and focusing on the positive are their true “secrets.”

“You can’t get anywhere in life until you start doing things for other people. Giving is a real joy.”

Their stories are both humbling and inspiring and shares a celebration of resilience, love, and the timeless wisdom that comes from living fully in every chapter of life.