Nearly 101-Year-Old Natalie Gregere Shares Her Longevity Habits

Natalie Gregere will soon turn 101. Her menu still includes blueberries, dark chocolate and even bacon. As reported by “Today”, she believes the key to longevity lies not in complicated diets but in how one approaches life.

Gregere was born in 1925 in New York. She worked as a telephone operator and married at 21. She and her husband spent 68 years together and raised two children; the family now includes four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She currently lives in a care facility in Englewood. Asked what helped her live so long, she says she doesn't really know, but considers it important to stay open, accept life as it comes and enjoy it.

Food without strict rules

Gregere starts every morning with blueberries. Dietitian Samantha Cassetty notes that research links the berries to better heart health, a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and better cognitive function. Apples and avocados have also been favorites, but she follows no specific diet. She loves dark chocolate, and one of her favorite breakfasts is two fried eggs with bacon and an English muffin. Experts point out that this does not mean such a diet extends life by itself, since longevity is also shaped by genetics, lifestyle and health status.

Dancing, crafts and laughter

In her youth Gregere enjoyed ballroom dancing and taught her husband to dance. She now dances while seated in a chair. Dancing can provide both aerobic and strength exercise and may improve balance, coordination, heart health and mood.

Her mother taught her to knit in childhood, and she made blankets, hats and sweaters for most of her life. She gave it up only a few years ago because of hand problems. Today she plays solitaire on a tablet and canasta with friends. Studies suggest that crafts and social games can help preserve cognitive function in old age.

Gregere describes herself as a happy optimist who likes to laugh and joke, and who has tried to believe things would turn out well even in difficult times. Research links optimism with living to 85 or beyond, and optimistic people often choose healthier lifestyles and cope better with stress.

Her story is not proof that these habits ensure a long life, but it is the approach she herself considers important.