Connie Springer  interviewed and photographed 28 active people in their nineties to find out what were the traits  “lively nonagenarians.” She offers these 20 commonalities she observed among these exceptional individuals. (They certainly are consistent with the lessons of the Legacy Project elders.) These observations are part of her project that resulted in the book Positively Ninety: Interviews with Lively Nonagenarians.

Flexibility (being willing to adapt to new situations)
Having a sense of humor
Living simply
Taking one day at a time
Never turning down an invitation
Doing things in moderation (particularly in regard to food)
Getting regular exercise
Having an optimistic attitude
Keeping mentally stimulated
Being open to meeting new people
Relating to younger people
Being connected to friends and family
Involvement in enjoyable activities
Loving to read
Having a “nothing can stop me” outlook
Sharing and caring
Not thinking about age
Being interested in what’s going on around you
Never quitting learning
Being just plain lucky (being blessed with good genes, good health,
and meaningful relationships)

© Connie Springer, larkspur@fuse.net. The book may be viewed and ordered from http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1785463#