A recent analysis in the United States identified 55,000 centenarians (people 100 years and older), most of whom were women (The Centenarian Population 2007-2011).
A study looked to find out what they were thinking about and what lifestyle factors might be contributing to their longevity.
Telephone surveys were conducted with 104 of the US residents who were or will be 100 in 2014, and 302 people who were 65 years old or would be this year.
More than half (53%) of the centenarians live independently, without the support of a carer.
They reported feeling "blessed" (36%), "happy" (31%) and "surprised" (12%) about living to 100.
Their keys to healthy aging were staying close to friends and family (91%), maintaining a sense of independence (88%) and eating right (86%).
Most (87%) see a doctor for an annual examination, 73% maintain vaccination schedules, and 71% have regular eye exams.
Over half of centenarians walk or hike at least once per week (56%). Approximately one-third (32%) perform strength-training exercises every week. Other top physical activities include indoor cardio exercise (23%) and gardening (21%).
So when you feel like skipping your exercise, remember that consistency is a vital factor in your exercise program.
Maintaining your fitness as you get older is so much easier than letting it slip and having to try to get it back again.
Article Author: David Beard, Calico's Exercise Physiologist & Healthy Aging Expert