There are many factors that can contribute to living a long, healthy life, from genetics to adopting certain lifestyle choices. In the state of Alaska, there are currently a few people aged 100 and older, and Anchorage, AK, home care experts want to share stories about 4 of these centenarians that are sure to inspire other seniors to live their lives to the fullest.
1. Clara Anderson
One of the oldest living Alaskans is Clara Anderson, who celebrated her 111th birthday this year. This active supercentenarian lives in Homer and does lunchtime piano performances for the South Peninsula Long-Term Care unit. Clara formerly taught math and language classes, and she continues to keep her mind occupied by practicing music and reading books.
2. Emma Northway
Another notable Alaskan centenarian is Emma Northway, who was born in 1915. She was originally from Mansfield and currently resides in Tok, and she is the oldest living Native elder in the area. Northway is a mother of 12 and attributes her long life to her sense of spirituality.
3. Henry Neligan
Henry Neligan is a centenarian who was once a member of the Alaska Territorial Guard. This World War II vet was a subject in a recent photo project by artist Danny Goldfield, who took portraits of centenarians in each of the 50 states. A world traveler and consummate gentleman, Neligan stays active by listening to audiobooks, doing large-print crossword puzzles, and striking up conversations with tourists. He also credits genetics for his long life. His father lived to be 104.
4. Lorraine Mae Leatherwood
Lorraine Mae Leatherwood was born on May 31, 1916 in Stillwell, Oklahoma. She currently lives in Juneau, where she recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Leatherwood, whose husband was a pastor, was active in the Seventh Day Adventist church before she moved to Alaska. She continues to take part in church activities and spends her free time at Juneau’s Bridge Adult Day Program, which helps her stay active. She credits her long life to the time she spends with family and friends.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly increase your aging loved one’s chances of enjoying a long and happy life like the men and women mentioned above, and the caregivers at Home Care Assistance can help him or her achieve this feat. All of our caregivers are trained in the Balanced Care Method, a program designed to encourage seniors to eat well, exercise regularly, stimulate their minds, and focus on various other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. For more information on respite and live-in care Anchorage seniors can rely on, call one of our knowledgeable Care Managers at (907) 770-0907 to schedule a free in-home consultation.