At 105, She’s Still Busy: Unveiling the Secrets and Science Behind Canada’s ‘Super Agers’
Angeline Charlebois maintains a busy schedule.
The 105-year-old Levack, Ont., resident spends her Tuesday afternoons in town playing cards with friends at the golden age club, often bringing home-baked treats to share. Charlebois enjoys reading and sewing, making hats for babies at the nearby hospital which she picked up as a new hobby at the age of 100.
“I’m not one to sit still. I’m driven. I like to stay active and engaged,” Charlebois mentioned from her living room in her two-bedroom townhouse where she has lived independently for almost 30 years.
She proudly displays photos of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren on the walls of her home, about 50 kilometers northwest of Sudbury.
Charlebois loves socializing, enjoying a drink on the weekends with family, particularly beer or rye and water, and Irish cream in her coffee after Sunday mass.
When people express amazement at her energy and good health at 105, Charlebois simply responds, “I don’t have a secret, just a good, basic lifestyle.”
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Angela Roberts, involved in international research on the lives of “super agers” like Charlebois, emphasizes the importance of social connections and close relationships in contributing to their long, healthy lives.
Research conducted at various universities examines trends among super agers, a group defined as individuals 80 and older with the memory of someone much younger. Roberts notes that social connection is a key factor in exceptional cognitive aging.
Super agers show resilience in the face of challenges and losses, with a strong sense of personal resilience aiding them in navigating life’s difficulties.
Asked about her secret to longevity, Charlebois attributes healthy habits and cooking to her long life, along with a forward-looking perspective and a love for playing solitaire each morning.
104-year-old Lina DeBray from Langley, B.C., continues reading and writing despite deteriorating eyesight, finding solace in her faith and lifelong curiosity.
Mr. George Cooper, a friendly 100-year-old from Quispamsis, N.B., remains active and engaged, playing various musical instruments and tending to a garden during the summer months.
