New York’s oldest person, Louise Jean Signore turned 112 last Wednesday, celebrating the occasion with her nephew and loved ones, plus some homemade pasta and cake. She also won $50 thanks to her neighbor Francis Perkins, who got her a $5 scratch ticket.
Louise was in high spirits as she posed in her two-piece outfit and side-parted gray hair. She shared her reasons for living long and offered some advice to the old and young, asking kids to listen to their parents. All of Jean’s siblings have passed away, leaving just her in Bronx, New York.
Louise Jean’s secret to longevity at 112 years old
Louise Jean’s simple tip for longevity is to never get married or have kids as they are trouble. She also avoids alcohol and smoking completely and has no regrets about living solo so far. She admitted to not expecting to live for so long but has come to embrace the privilege.
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Aside from staying single and cutting out booze and smoking, Louise Jean used to be diet-conscious and physically active, hence her healthy appearance. Having lived through different eras, Jean has a lot to reminisce about, including how she would twirl around Roseland Ballroom every weekend back in the ‘40s.
A life well lived
Louise Jean worked as an administrative assistant at the MTA until her retirement at 65 in 1977. Since then, she has become a regular at the Bartow Senior Center, where she celebrates her 106th birthday in the house with live music.
She credits healthy habits from childhood for how easily a clean, healthy routine comes to her; however, Louise Jean got candid about life lately, noting that she is unable to do outdoor sports due to her eyesight, arthritis, and hearing problems. She still does simple workouts such as leg lifts and basic movements. She also takes salad, fruit, and vegetables every day except for Sundays when soda is permitted.