100 years old

Summary

The video highlights the lives of centenarians like Ray Crist, a 101-year-old scientist, and Elva Gould, a 101-year-old artist, both of whom remain active and passionate about their work. Crist continues studying environmental science, driven by curiosity, while Gould finds joy in painting and socializing. The video also explores the potential genetic factors contributing to their longevity, with researchers investigating a possible 'longevity gene.' However, they emphasize that lifestyle choices such as healthy habits and managing stress also play significant roles in extending life, offering a 'pot of gold' for those who prioritize well-being.

Takeaways

• 🎂 Ray Crist, a 101-year-old scientist, is still actively working and heading to his lab at Messiah College.
• 🔬 Crist has spent the last 30 years studying the effects of toxic metals on the environment and finds his work fascinating rather than a chore.
• ❤️ Despite his pacemaker, limited vision, and hearing issues, he is driven by an internal motivation to continue his research.
• 📚 Crist recently received proofs for his latest publication from the American Chemical Society, showcasing his continued professional contributions.
• 🎨 Another centenarian, Elva Gould, age 101, stays active by painting, a hobby she has enjoyed for almost 90 years.
• 🍫 Gould also keeps a lively routine, including making favorite recipes, nibbling on chocolate, and going on outings with friends.
• 🧬 Many centenarians, including Gould and Crist, have family members who also lived long lives, suggesting a genetic factor for longevity.
• 🔍 Researchers Dr. Lewis Kunkel and Dr. Thomas Perls are studying centenarians to identify genes responsible for their long lives, with early findings pointing to a section of a chromosome linked to longevity.
• 💊 Future longevity drugs are a possibility, but researchers emphasize that maintaining good health habits like staying lean, exercising, and avoiding smoking can already extend life significantly.
• 🏅 Centenarians are redefining aging by living healthy lives well into their 100s, setting a new standard for longevity and vitality.

Q & A

Who is Ray Crist and what is his profession?

Ray Crist is a 101-year-old lifelong scientist who works at Messiah College in Grantham, Pennsylvania. He is still actively studying the effects of toxic metals on the environment.

What keeps Ray Crist motivated to continue working at his age?

Ray Crist describes his work as inherently interesting and enjoyable, not feeling like work. He is driven by an 'inner movement' or 'inner drive' that compels him to keep going, despite his age.

What physical challenges does Ray Crist face at 101 years old?

Ray Crist has a pacemaker, limited vision, and diminished hearing, but he does not let these challenges prevent him from continuing his work.

Who is Elva Gould, and what is her passion?

Elva Gould is a 101-year-old California resident whose passion is painting, a hobby she has pursued for almost 90 years. She also enjoys spending time with friends and making her favorite recipes.

How does Elva Gould view aging?

Elva Gould doesn't feel like she's getting older, as she continues to do the same activities she has always done. She believes life hasn't changed much for her, even at 101.

Does longevity run in Elva Gould’s family?

Yes, longevity runs in Elva Gould’s family. Her father lived to be almost 102, and her cousin Callie lived to be 111.

What traits do centenarians like Ray Crist and Elva Gould share, according to the script?

Centenarians often share traits like a positive, happy-go-lucky personality, assertiveness, an ability to manage stress, and having interests or hobbies that motivate them daily.

What role does genetics play in longevity according to Dr. Pearl and Dr. Kunkel’s research?

According to Dr. Pearl and Dr. Kunkel, genetics play a significant role in longevity. More than 50% of the centenarians in their study had family members who also lived long lives, suggesting a genetic component.

What progress has been made in identifying genes related to longevity?

Dr. Kunkel and Dr. Pearl’s research has led to the identification of a section of a chromosome that is believed to be linked to longevity. However, they are still searching for the specific gene or genes responsible for longer life.

What advice does Dr. Pearl give for achieving longevity, apart from genetics?

Dr. Pearl advises that good health habits, such as maintaining a lean body, avoiding smoking, and exercising, can contribute to living a long, healthy life, even beyond the genetic factors.