In a world where we are often bombarded with the latest health trends and diet fads, a 101-year-old woman’s approach is refreshingly straightforward and, dare we say, liberating. Her top three tips for reaching triple digits are simpler than one would expect.
Ruth Ella Goldberg Jaskow is a former teacher from New York City, whose zest for life and surprising eating habits are interesting. Ruth, who was married to Lou Jaskow, a World War II veteran who lived to the ripe age of 103, is now on a playful mission to ‘beat’ his age.
Speaking to Business Insider, she shared that living long is as much about attitude as they are about what is on your plate. With this, she lives by these practices:
1. Making happiness a habit
Ruth’s first piece of advice is to simply enjoy life. This centenarian spends her free time indulging in activities that bring her joy, such as seeing her family and making jewellery.
Her lifestyle is a reminder that happiness is not just a fleeting emotion but a daily choice that could have profound effects on our well-being.
2. Staying active
Despite her age, Ruth emphasises the importance of movement, saying, ‘You just need to keep moving.’
Ruth’s commitment to daily exercise is a testament to her past as an avid dancer and tennis player. She shared that she still works out each day, even at age 101.
3. Eating whatever you want
The most intriguing practice Ruth lives by is her approach to eating. She does not subscribe to any special diet or swear by any particular superfoods.
Instead, she eats whatever she wants, whenever she wants, because she loves food. Perhaps, this also goes back to her first tip: simply enjoying life.
Ruth’s story is a beautiful reminder that life is to be savoured in every aspect, including what we eat.
On her 101st birthday, Atria Rye Brook, her retirement home, took to social media to share anecdotes of Ruth’s life with her husband Lou and their 79 years of shared happiness.
‘Ruth Ella Goldberg Jaskow, at 101, is living proof that age is just a number. She met her late husband, Lou, at the tender age of 16 during a summer romance at Lake Mahopac. They married during World War II, and Ruth recalls her happiest day as the moment she saw Lou walking down the gangplank upon returning from the war,’ they wrote.
‘Ruth’s positive outlook on life contributed to their 79 years of happiness together. The couple moved to Atria Rye Brook when she was 96 and Lou was 99. There, they celebrated their 77th anniversary among other happy occasions, sharing their lives until Lou’s passing at the age of 103.’
Now, Ruth continues to inspire those around her at Atria Rye Brook, starting each day with exercises that invigorate both her body and the community. Her vibrant spirit is a powerful illustration that age, indeed, is just a number.
What is your takeaway from Ruth’s story? We would love to hear your thoughts on her approach to longevity.
Our YourLifeChoices readers, do you have your secrets to a long and happy life? Share your stories and tips in the comments below, and let us inspire each other to live our best lives, no matter our age!
Also read: Noel Whittaker’s checklist to help you start the new year right
She is amazing but I’m afraid that I simply do not want to live in the only kind of aged care home that I could afford. I’m in my early 80s and currently live independently and keep as active as I can with various ailments that I have. I stay involved with family and friends and enjoy my life very much but if I can no longer look after myself, I’d prefer to go out with a bang on my own terms.
Thanks for sharing, Jane! Sounds like you’re truly making the most of life right now. Everyone deserves the freedom to choose how they want to live—and I’m glad you’ve found what feels right for you!
I am still a fairly healthy 75 year old man. I agree with what the centenarian says and follow a similar lifestyle including playing social tennis.
I do try to eat wholefoods though but don’t worry about consuming some less healthy stuff from time to time.
Aside from that I think luck and genetics play a role in longevity too. Most of my ancestors led long lives so I think that increases my chances of also doing so.