At Charter Oak Home Care, we have the privilege of supporting individuals and families across every stage of aging. One of the most inspiring groups we encounter are centenarians, those who have lived 100 years or more.
So what do people who live to 100+ actually have in common?
Research from the Blue Zones, a concept popularized by Dan Buettner has identified specific regions around the world where people consistently live longer lives. From these communities, clear patterns emerge that go far beyond genetics.
What the Research Says: Common Traits of Centenarians
1. Moderation is a Way of Life
Centenarians don’t tend to follow extreme diets or lifestyles. Instead, they practice balanced eating until they’re satisfied, enjoying treats occasionally, and avoiding excess. In Okinawa, Japan, for example, the principle of “hara hachi bu” encourages people to eat until they are about 80% full (Buettner, The Blue Zones, 2008).
2. Strong Family and Social Connections
A long life isn’t just physical, it’s also social. Blue Zones communities consistently show that people who maintain close relationships with family and friends live longer and experience lower rates of depression and chronic illness (National Institute on Aging, 2011).
3. Daily, Natural Movement
Rather than intense gym routines, centenarians tend to stay active through daily life. Enjoying hobbies such as gardening, walking, and cooking. With consistent, low-impact activity supports long-term health (Buettner, 2008).
Wisdom from Theodore, Turning 103
Theodore receives services from Charter Oak Home Care and as he approaches his 103rd birthday, his life reflects many of these same principles.
When asked what advice he would give to someone hoping to reach 103, his answer was simple:
“In life, you have to take everything in moderation. Never drink too much, never eat too much, never do anything overboard. Everything in life, do in moderation.”
That philosophy has clearly served him well. Reflecting on what he’s learned over a lifetime, he shared:
“You live a good life if you take care of your family. Life has its ups and downs, but generally, life has been pretty good.”
A proud veteran who lives by the values of the United States Marine Corps code of honor, Theodore has carried discipline, integrity, and commitment into his everyday life.
Today, his joy comes from the people and passions that surround him. He loves spending time with his 12 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He finds peace in gardening, a hobby that keeps him active and connected to nature. And in a reflection of his generosity, he collects pearls to give as gifts each holiday to his granddaughters.
Recently, Theodore was also honored with a letter from the President, recognizing his service—a meaningful reminder of a life rooted in dedication and purpose.
What This Means for All of Us
While not everyone will live to 100, the lessons from centenarians like Theodore and the Blue Zones research are clear:
- Balance matters more than perfection
- Relationships are essential to well-being
- Staying active doesn’t have to be complicated
- Values and perspective shape how we experience life
At Charter Oak Home Care, we believe aging is not just about adding years to life—but life to years. Supporting independence, connection, and dignity is at the heart of everything we do.
And if Theodore’s 103 years have taught us anything, it’s this: a long life isn’t built on one big decision—but on the small, steady choices we make every day.
