- The number of British centenarians has increased, from 110 in 1921 to 13,924 in 2021
- The results showed they had 19 traits in common, including honesty
Having a sense of humor is useful when dealing with the trials of old age – but being curious is likely to get you there sooner.
Research shows that curiosity is an important quality for longevity and is more important than humor, optimism or faith.
The number of centenarians in Britain has increased, from 110 in 1921 to 13,924 in 2021. Based on interviews with men and women aged between 100 and 107, researchers looked for common characteristics.
The results showed they had 19 traits in common, including honesty, love of learning, gratitude, intelligence, being active and curiosity.
Other qualities that were considered peripheral – and not found in most men and women – were cheerfulness, religious faith, courage and humor.
Having a sense of humor comes in handy when dealing with the trials of old age – but being curious is more likely to get you there
The number of centenarians in Britain has increased, from 110 in 1921 to 13,924 in 2021. Based on interviews with men and women aged between 100 and 107, researchers looked for common characteristics
‘Centenarians have successful academic and professional achievements, are self-taught problem solvers who take on challenges even though they are not trained.
“They like to learn, are curious and have a good memory,” say the psychologists from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, whose findings have been published in the Journal of Happiness Studies.
They added: ‘An analysis of the lives of healthy centenarians provides us with lessons that are likely to help us achieve a healthy old age.
‘Be curious, get to know new cultures, travel and read. Curiosity is the urge to know, to travel, to stay informed. Stay intellectually active and discover new areas of knowledge and learning.’
- Are you a centenarian or do you know one? Tell us what you think. Email letters@mailonsunday.co.uk