Shirley Hodes, 106, and her sister Ruth Swidler, 103, have revealed what has helped them live long lives while maintaining mental clarity.
Women have crossed the century mark, but admit that they do not feel old. They named four factors that help them maintain mental acuity, interest in life and health.
The sisters' first item was work. The younger Ruth played in an amateur theater. Even in old age, she continued to go on stage.
The eldest Shirley was a housekeeper until she was 50, and when her children grew up, she worked as a teacher's assistant and a paramedic, CNBC reports. The woman regrets that she did not receive a teaching degree.
Both sisters believe that a happy marriage also affects life expectancy. Another key to longevity, in their opinion, is the desire to learn new things. Hodes still reads a lot. She is sure that books are one of the best ways to keep the brain in shape.
Ruth noted that older people often become fixated on problems, close themselves off from the world, and as a result, gradually lose interest in life.
The sisters grew up in a poor family, but they are grateful for all the good things that happened in life. The women focus on the positive moments and try to think optimistically. In their opinion, this is their fourth secret to a long life.
