How to live long and live well as per a 115-year-old: Oldest human in America

Elizabeth Francis is the oldest human in America, and surely her life serves as an example of strength, family, simplicity, and optimism. On her 115th birthday, she had nothing else to ask for other than two slices of cake. Being the oldest person in the country, her life has provided a wealth of knowledge about living a long and fulfilling life. Elizabeth’s journey is not just about attaining a specific age but also about living a life full of love, laughter, and simplicity.She has a glitter in her eyes and a praise for life. Here are some unsaid secrets to a long and happy life.

Cherish family and community connections

One of the most striking aspects of Elizabeth Francis’s life is her deep connection to her family and community. Born in 1909 in Louisiana, Elizabeth was separated from her siblings at a young age and raised by an aunt, as reported by the Washington Post. Despite these early challenges, she built a strong family of her own, including her daughter, Dorothy Williams, and a large extended family.

Francis’s family remains close-knit, with three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren regularly visiting her. This strong familial bond has undoubtedly played an important role in her long life. Maintaining close relationships with family and friends can significantly impact longevity and overall happiness.

Stay active and engaged

Elizabeth never learned to drive, so she walked or took the bus everywhere. This habit of staying active could be a contributing factor to her longevity. Regular physical activity is known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and increase life expectancy.
Even in her advanced years, Elizabeth stays mentally engaged. She enjoys watching old television shows like “Good Times” and “The Jeffersons” with her daughter, maintaining a lively and active mind. Engaging in hobbies and activities that stimulate the brain can help keep cognitive functions sharp as we age.

Live simply and with gratitude

Elizabeth Francis has led a simple life, filled with gratitude and contentment. She ran a coffee shop for 20 years, and she was known for her homemade tea cakes and chicken and dumplings. Her lifestyle was one of modesty and simplicity, which might be key to her long life.
Living simply and appreciating what you have can lead to a less stressful life. Chronic stress is known to be detrimental to health, contributing to a range of diseases and shortening life expectancy. Practising gratitude, as Elizabeth does, can improve mental health and increase overall well-being.

Speak your mind and stay positive

Francis’s advice for a long life is straightforward: “Speak your mind and don’t hold your tongue.” This philosophy has likely contributed to her mental and emotional health. Expressing oneself openly can reduce stress and promote mental clarity. It also builds better relationships with others, as honesty and openness are key components of strong, healthy interactions. Optimism has been linked to lower risks of chronic diseases and better mental health, contributing to a longer, healthier life.

Focus on faith and fortitude

Elizabeth’s story is deeply linked with her faith and fortitude. Despite the challenges she faced, including the early loss of her mother and raising her child as a single mother, she has remained strong. Her strong faith and inner strength have carried her through tough times.
Having a sense of purpose in the face of adversity is significant for longevity. People who have a strong sense of purpose and who can bounce back from setbacks tend to live longer and healthier lives.