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Howard Tucker has turned 103 years old,
and this man has not only broken records as the world’s oldest practicing doctor, but has also busted myths about aging and retirement! This doctor says that retirement is the enemy of longevity because you need to have a purpose in life…
We’re already crazy about retiring, Tucker.
In an interview with Al Roker from TODAY, this neurologist from Ohio explained why staying active, both physically and mentally, is the secret to a long and fulfilling life like his, so we’re going to share Dr. Tucker’s tips to help you reach 100!
Who is Howard Tucker?
Dr. Howard Tucker has spent more than seven decades dedicated to neurology. At over 100 years old, he still teaches medical residents and consults on legal-medical cases, proving that curiosity and purpose keep the mind sharp and the spirit young. A Navy veteran who later earned a law degree at 67, Dr. Tucker has lived a life of learning and service. He’s a living testament to the idea that passion (not retirement) is the true elixir of longevity.
Although he officially retired at 100 when the hospital where he worked closed, he still teaches classes and looks for new ways to share his experience. “If the hospital were still open, I’d still be seeing patients,” this doctor admits.
The “silent enemy” of longevity: retirement
For Tucker, retirement isn’t just the end of working life, but also a risk to mental health. This neurologist believes that when someone retires and does nothing, they stop being the person they were, so he has advice for retirees: always have a goal, even if it’s just a hobby or volunteering, something that gets you moving and keeps you from sitting around the house.
About his diet
His diet also reflects this balance: seasonal fruit, cereals, low-fat milk and tea to start the day; for dinner, fish, vegetables like broccoli and some meat from time to time.
But it’s not just about diet, staying curious and finding joy in the small things in life is part of his “formula for happiness”.
What else?
We’ve talked about motivation in retirement, but Tucker also places special emphasis on exercise. Although he stopped skiing at 80 after a fall, he’s never stopped moving. He walks 5 km every day on his treadmill and uses snowshoes in winter. “Walking just 15 minutes a day can reduce the risk of premature death by 25%,” he says.
A positive attitude always!
Married for over 70 years, with 4 children and 10 grandchildren, Howard Tucker emphasizes that social relationships and family support are essential for living longer and better. These connections prolong life and strengthen the mind, but above all, they make you feel loved!
No fear of death
Far from fearing the end, Howard sees death as a reality that shouldn’t cloud the joy of the present. Life should be lived almost as a constant carpe diem, his motto is “You die once, but you live every day. Focus on the living.”
In this way, his optimism is contagious and redefines what it means to age with dignity. What a great life philosophy, right?
So, yes, the secret to happiness (and longevity) isn’t luxury, it’s not plastic surgery or fancy cars. There are only three keys to success according to this doctor: keep your mind busy, love a lot and stay healthy. And don’t say that age is a problem, because Tucker has shown that none of that is true!
