My mum’s secret to being full of energy in her 80s
HOW to be 80 years young (Good Health)? Here I am pictured with my mother — Queen Gwen, as the family calls her — stomping through the woods. She is 87 and has the outlook, stamina and zest for life that would leave a 20-year-old in her wake. Her secret? Fierce independence despite losing the love of her life 22 years ago, reading, cookery, baking, knitting, sewing, her iPad — she FaceTimes the whole family — bowls, dancing, clubs and shopping. She is a volunteer at the children’s Pilgrims hospice, where she helps out in the shop, and she crochets beautiful blankets for every newborn in the family. Mum writes a daily journal, keeps up with politics and has a quip for every occasion. That’s her secret to a fulfilled and wonderful life — you go, Mum!
JACQUI BOAST, Canterbury.
THE only necessity in life is joie de vivre. At 87, I speak four languages, keep my mind active and exercise every morning. I have only ever used a baby product on my face and body — hence I have few wrinkles. I never eat takeaways or ready-meals. I have a glass of wine at lunch, and in the evening a tot of good whisky with water. I am well-read and a good mixer. It hasn’t always been easy: I survived breast cancer in 1990 and have lost my Greek soulmate of 36 years, who was 15 years younger than me. I’ve lived most of my adult life abroad, returning to the UK four years ago. Sadly, values, standards and respect have disappeared and political correctness reigns supreme.
Mrs E. CHRISTE, New Mill, w. Yorks.