At 101, most people would be happy just to enjoy a quiet life. But not Mildred Kirschenbaum. This spirited woman has become an internet sensation, sharing her thoughts and life lessons. But what’s her one big secret to living such a long, healthy, and fulfilling life?It’s not a green juice. It’s not a strict routine. It’s not even exercise.Her answer is simple, and incredibly powerful: stay socially connected.Here’s what that really means through Mildred’s life—and why science agrees with her.
A life full of laughter, cards, and conversations
Mildred lives in a community where she’s often found playing cards, cracking jokes, and chatting with neighbours. This daily interaction, she believes, is a vital part of her well-being.It’s easy to dismiss social life as something “extra.” But for Mildred, it’s essential. “We all need connection. We all need community,” she says.She’s not just saying it—she’s living proof that social bonds can be lifesaving.Harvard’s longest-running study on adult development—spanning over 80 years—found that good relationships keep people happier and healthier. Not money. Not fame. But meaningful, real-life connections.Loneliness, on the other hand, has been linked to higher risks of heart disease, cognitive decline, and even early death. In fact, according to the World Health Organisation, social isolation can be as harmful to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.Mildred’s lifestyle matches this evidence perfectly. Her circle of friends, frequent social interactions, and close bond with her daughter keep her mentally and emotionally vibrant.
Technology as a tool; Not a distraction
It’s easy to assume someone born in 1923 might struggle with smartphones or social media. Not Mildred.Her daughter Gayle, taught her to record raw videos, which are edited and shared across platforms. And when she doesn’t know something—like how to find a feature on her iPhone—she calls Apple Support and asks.This openness to learn and stay engaged is rare and refreshing.Technology, in her hands, is not a way to isolate, but a way to connect. It’s how she reaches her fans, shares wisdom, and finds purpose.
No fear in asking or adapting
Mildred doesn’t pretend to know it all. She often reminds people, “If I don’t know the answer, I’ll say so.” That humility makes her not only relatable but also more willing to grow.Mildred speaks lovingly of her husband, who passed away after 64 years of marriage. “When I turned over in bed and looked at him, I knew I was with my best friend,” she says.They saved up through “Christmas clubs” to travel, knowing the value of creating memories while they could.Today, she no longer rushes. She enjoys her villa, takes her time, and doesn’t feel pressured to be constantly on the move. She knows what brings her peace—and sticks to it.Staying socially connected doesn’t always mean going out. For Mildred, it also means being present and content with herself and her space.
The real secret? People matter most
If there’s one golden thread that runs through Mildred Kirschenbaum’s story, it’s this: people matter more than anything else.Whether it’s chatting with friends over cards, travelling with family, or making strangers laugh online, she has built a life around connection, not perfection. Longevity is really about the basics – balanced diet, exercise, and better mental health.
