Multiple factors, such as age, gender, and race, are out of our control and influence longevity. However, several influences, such as diet, activity levels, and how we choose to lead our lives, can be controlled.
A 99-year-old has shared how she lived a long life, crediting a quote her aunt told her.
Dorothy Wiggins, who turns 100 on August 14, 2025, spoke on the YouTube channel Seeds Of Success by Sprouht about her longevity.
She said: "My father's sister used to tell me, 'Dorothy, live in the present. Do not live in the past; just live in the present.' She would always say that to me, and it had some effect. I do live in the present and try to enjoy each moment."
The 99-year-old encouraged people to avoid getting stressed and enjoy the moment
YouTube/Seeds Of Success by Sprouht
Dorothy feels that many people do not live in the moment or enjoy their lives because they let themselves get "bothered".
She said: "I try not to get aggravated and have a positive attitude. Most things that happen, I let slide over me, which a lot of people would get aggravated by. It upsets their stomach, and they get frustrated.
"I think most people are always stressed and do not enjoy themselves. They are too busy thinking about making money and do not think of being happy enough. They do not relax and enjoy."
The 99-year-old plans her days around leading a "happy and pleasurable life," as she used to do with her late husband.
She explained: "My husband and I were very much in love. He died two months after he was 100.
"Every single day, no matter what, we were travelling or moving. At the end of every single day, we had a cocktail. That was our sacred cocktail hour."
The nonagenarian encouraged people to live similarly to those in the Mediterranean who live a slower pace of life.
Dorothy said: "The Mediterranean countries know how to live longer. They enjoy their food and relaxation and take two to three-hour lunches."
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The nonagenarian spoke on the YouTube channel Seeds Of Success by Sprouht
YouTube/Seeds Of Success by Sprouht
A 90-year-old has also revealed her secret to longevity is a daily exercise, telling others that "if you don't use it, you'll lose it".
A TikTok creator who goes by Gluten Free Gut Health Girl (@connievalentinecurrie) introduced her mother on the sharing platform.
She said to viewers: "Want to stay strong for life? Listen to tips from my 90-year-old mum."
The nonagenarian shared that she enjoys two daily walks: one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
