In a world obsessed with anti-ageing serums, high-tech fitness trackers, and the latest ‘superfood’ trends, it’s easy to believe that the secret to a long, healthy life must be hidden in a bottle or behind a paywall.
But what if the real answers are much simpler—and closer to home? Meet Teresa ‘Terry’ Blatz Walker, a 98-year-old who’s lived through nearly a century of change, challenge, and joy.
Her story might just change the way you think about longevity.
A life less ordinary: Terry’s story
Born in 1926 on a US farm during the Great Depression, Terry was the youngest of eight children. Her family, like many at the time, faced tough times—money was tight, and education was a luxury.
While her siblings became priests and nuns to access schooling, Terry’s determination and intellect earned her full scholarships to both high school and college, where she graduated as valedictorian.
Now living on the East Coast with her daughter and son-in-law, Terry has outlived all her siblings, survived cancer three times, and witnessed the world transform in ways most of us can only imagine.
She’s a mother of three, grandmother, and great-grandmother to six, and her life is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and, above all, joy.
Forget fads—focus on the fundamentals
When asked about today’s obsession with anti-ageing and longevity, Terry’s response is refreshingly down-to-earth.
She’s never been one for trends or quick fixes. ‘Nobody seems to eat breakfast anymore,’ she observes, but it’s not just about the food—it’s about the ritual.
‘I think eating meals in a lovely situation is the most important thing. Happiness contributes to health more than anything.’
Terry’s early years were spent eating what the family farm produced—long before ‘organic’ became a buzzword. Her approach to health was intuitive, not prescriptive.
She didn’t count calories or track macros; she simply enjoyed wholesome food, good company, and the simple pleasures of daily life.
The 98-year-old shares that the right attitude goes a long way. Image source: Mostovyi Sergii Igorevich / Shutterstock.com
The Real secret: Attitude over answers
So, what’s Terry’s secret to a long life? She’s quick to credit ‘good luck, God’s grace,’ and a survivor’s spirit. But she’s also humble enough to admit that there are no guarantees.
‘Why some live long and why some don’t is a mystery,’ she says. ‘Perhaps we should embrace the mystery of it above all.’
Terry believes that finding joy in life and connecting with happy moments is more important than any supplement or fitness regime.
‘Each era has different goodness and joys, because I was a different person in each one,’ she reflects.
From playing checkers with her siblings to raising children and forging deep friendships in her seventies, Terry has found happiness in every chapter.
Laughter: The best medicine?
If she could offer just one piece of advice, it would be this: ‘Laugh more.’ In her view, we take life far too seriously.
Lightening up, finding humour in the everyday, and not sweating the small stuff might just be the real trick to longevity.
Lessons for modern life
Terry’s story is a gentle reminder that while we can’t control everything—our genes, the passage of time, or the curveballs life throws our way—we can choose how we respond. We can savour our meals, cherish our relationships, and seek out joy and laughter, even in tough times.
Here are a few takeaways from Terry’s nearly 100 years of wisdom:
Prioritise Connection: Whether it’s family, friends, or neighbours, nurturing relationships is key to happiness and health.
Enjoy Simple Pleasures: A good meal, a walk in nature, a favourite hobby—these small joys add up.
Stay Curious and Adaptable: Embrace change and keep learning, no matter your age.
Don’t Obsess Over Perfection: There’s no magic formula for a long life. Sometimes, letting go is the healthiest thing you can do.
Laugh Often: Find reasons to smile and share laughter with others—it’s good for the soul.
Blue Zones are areas that scientists have identified to have people who consistently live to well over their 90s. Image source: Photo by Vlad Sargu on Unsplash
What does science say?
Interestingly, Terry’s approach aligns with much of the research on longevity. Studies of the world’s ‘Blue Zones’—regions where people regularly live into their 90s and beyond—show that social connection, a sense of purpose, regular movement, and a positive outlook are just as important as diet and exercise.
Your turn: What’s your secret?
Have you learned any surprising lessons about ageing well? Do you have a family member or friend who’s defied the odds? We’d love to hear your stories and tips for living a long, happy life. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
And remember, while we can’t all live to 98, we can all choose to live well—one laugh, one meal, and one joyful moment at a time.
Also read: World’s oldest woman crowned at 115—expert shares longevity advice
I think having children around helps keep you young be they your children or grandchildren although that depends on the circumstances as some kids can cause more stress than joy.
I am in the unusual situation of my oldest daughter being 55 and youngest daughter 15. They are half sisters and biologically probably only a male could find themself in my place.
I have raised nine kids over my lifetime as both a father and step father and fortunately the experience has been mostly a good one which I think has helped me become a reasonably healthy and active 75 year old.