Eternal Life? The secrets of the centenarians | DW Documentary

Summary

In the Oglastra region of Sardinia, people live remarkably long lives, with many centenarians still working and remaining active well into their 90s and beyond. The secret to their longevity seems to lie in a combination of daily physical activity, close-knit family bonds, a healthy diet based on local foods, and a relaxed lifestyle that avoids stress. Centenarians like Gioino and Antonello share their personal stories of resilience, passion for work, and community involvement. This unique lifestyle, grounded in tradition and nature, offers valuable insights into aging well and maintaining vitality throughout life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sardinia's east coast is home to some of the longest-living people in the world, with many centenarians.
• 😀 Active lifestyles, including physical work and keeping engaged with family and friends, are key factors in their longevity.
• 😀 Many people in Sardinia continue working well into their 90s, as work is a source of passion and keeps them physically fit.
• 😀 The importance of fresh, homemade food like cheese, bread, beans, and vegetables is emphasized as part of the Sardinian diet for longevity.
• 😀 Sardinians often live in close-knit family units, with frequent visits and strong family support, contributing to their mental and emotional well-being.
• 😀 Sardinians maintain a calm, stress-free life, prioritizing rest, enjoying nature, and living according to their own rhythms.
• 😀 Personal care and maintaining an active lifestyle, such as walking daily or engaging in physical labor, are common among older individuals in Sardinia.
• 😀 Research into the Sardinian population’s genetics and lifestyle habits helps explain their extraordinary longevity, particularly in combating diseases like cancer.
• 😀 The local community in Sardinia celebrates life with festivals, communal meals, and outdoor activities that strengthen social bonds.
• 😀 The key to a long life in Sardinia lies in simplicity, balance, healthy eating, and staying connected with others.

Q & A

What is one of the main secrets to longevity in Sardinia, as shown in the script?

One of the main secrets to longevity in Sardinia is staying active, working regularly, eating healthy foods, and maintaining close social connections with family and friends.

How does Antonello, who is 91, maintain his health and vitality?

Antonello maintains his health by staying physically active, working with his sheep, and eating fresh, local produce. He believes that staying active is crucial to avoiding sickness and staying fit.

What role does family play in the longevity of people in Sardinia?

Family plays a significant role in Sardinian longevity. The elderly are often looked after by their children and grandchildren, and social gatherings and celebrations with family members are essential for emotional and mental well-being.

What is Gioino's approach to life at 100 years old?

At 100 years old, Gioino stays active by walking, maintaining his appearance, and engaging with the community. He lives independently, has regular visits from his grandchildren, and enjoys social interactions.

Why do the people in Sardinia avoid 'sin' in relation to their health?

The Sardinians in the script associate avoiding 'sin' with maintaining good health. They believe that indulgence or excess (such as overeating or overindulgence in vices) can lead to sickness, and that moderation is key to a long life.

How does Antonello's approach to food preparation reflect Sardinian values?

Antonello’s approach to food preparation reflects the Sardinian values of self-sufficiency and simplicity. He makes cheese from sheep's milk and shares it with his family and friends, using only fresh, local ingredients without preservatives.

What does the research center in Sardinia aim to discover about aging?

The research center in Sardinia focuses on understanding the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to longevity. They gather biological data from individuals across different age groups to study the causes of diseases and aging.

What role does stress play in the longevity of Sardinians?

Stress is seen as detrimental to health in Sardinia. The people in the script emphasize the importance of avoiding stress, as it is considered 'poison' for the body. They live at a slower pace, focusing on family, work, and community.

How do the older Sardinians, such as Karolina, manage their pain and health?

Karolina, like other elderly Sardinians, manages her health by staying mentally strong and resilient. She refuses to let pain control her life and maintains an active mindset, focusing on the positive and keeping busy with daily tasks.

What does the script suggest about the relationship between Sardinian cuisine and longevity?

Sardinian cuisine is closely tied to longevity, with an emphasis on homemade, simple foods like bread, cheese, potatoes, beans, and minestrone. The food is fresh, local, and free from preservatives, contributing to the overall health of the community.