‘I still pick roses’ 96-Year-Old woman shares her secrets to a long and happy life

By Admin

12 Jul, 2025

We all dream of living a long, fulfilling life   but how do we make those extra years truly meaningful? While we’ve long been told to eat well, exercise regularly, sleep soundly, and avoid bad habits, health experts now believe that physical health is only one piece of the puzzle. Mental sharpness, emotional resilience, social connection, and a sense of purpose might matter just as much   if not more.

And no one embodies this philosophy better than 96-year-old Betty Parker from California.

Still Picking Roses at 96

While many her age focus on their health struggles, Betty focuses on joy. She still picks fresh roses from her garden, plays cards with friends, reads, and entertains guests   even if the pies are store-bought now. Her 90s, she says, are full of connection, contentment, and curiosity.

Her daughter, Dr. Kerry Burnight, a renowned gerontologist, sees Betty’s life as living proof that aging can be vibrant and rewarding.

“It’s not just about living longer,” Dr. Burnight says. “It’s about living better.”

The Four Pillars of a Long, Joyful Life

Dr. Burnight highlights four simple yet powerful habits that can shape a fulfilling later life:

1. Growing
   
   

2. Connecting
   
   

3. Adapting
   
   

4. Giving
   
   

These don’t require strict diets or fancy routines. Like exercise builds your body, these habits strengthen your emotional and mental well-being. The best part? You can begin anytime   no matter your age.

“It’s not too late at all. In fact, it’s the perfect time to really lean in,” says Burnight, author of Joyspan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half.

Planning for Purpose Beyond Work

According to Dr. John Batsis, a geriatrician at the University of North Carolina, many people fall off the "retirement cliff"   losing structure, social interaction, and purpose.

The solution? Don’t wait. Start developing hobbies, routines, and social circles before retirement. And if you’re already retired? Try something new   painting, gardening, book clubs, volunteering, or anything that brings you joy.

Keep Growing: Mind and Body

Staying mentally sharp isn’t just about doing crosswords. Dr. Burnight recommends learning something completely new   cooking a different cuisine, trying an art class, or picking up a musical instrument.

“New experiences activate neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to keep growing,” she explains.

Physically, you don’t need a gym membership to stay active. Simple activities like gardening, walking, or dancing can keep your body in motion and your spirit lifted. The key is to do what you enjoy.

Loneliness: The Silent Threat

Health experts now say that loneliness in older adults is as dangerous as smoking or obesity. Staying connected with friends, neighbors, or a community group builds self-worth and emotional stability. Even small acts   mentoring, volunteering, or calling a friend   can make a huge difference.

For caregivers, Dr. Burnight advises not to take over everything. Encourage your loved ones to stay engaged and independent wherever possible   it helps maintain confidence and cognitive function.

It’s Never Too Late

Whether you're 30, 60, or 90, it’s always the right time to live better. The secret to a happy, long life lies in physical activity, mental stimulation, social bonds, and having purpose.

Just like Betty Parker, who still picks roses and finds joy in the everyday, we all can thrive by adding life to our years   not just years to our life.

So go ahead   start a new hobby, reconnect with an old friend, or plant a rose bush. Because the real beauty of life? It’s never too late to bloom. 🌹