The Word From A 105-Year-Old: 'The Second 100 Years Are Better'

We wish her many more happy birthdays!
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Ilyes Laszlo via Getty Images

Clarice Emley, who turns 105 on Sunday, has a message for people who are scared of growing older. Nonsense, she says, "the second 100 years are better." 

The Tampa Bay Times profiled the former teacher, who was raised on a farm where her family ate just what they grew and caught. She told the outlet that she is glad she's not a kid today.

The Baypoint Village resident is a regular in the facility's exercise and stretching class, but doesn't credit exercise for her longevity. "I think you just have to crawl out of bed every morning, that's all," she said. Hmmm, we think there may be more to it, Clarice!

Over the years, Huff/Post50 has heard from a lot of centenarians, who've attributed their long lives to everything from avoiding men to booze. In 2014, a national survey of centenarians in the United States found that the secrets to long life include plenty of time with friends and family and a commitment to fitness.

No matter what the secret, we wish Clarice many more happy birthdays! For more on Clarice, check out the video below.

Before You Go

8 Exercises to Reduce the Effects of Aging
Tai Chi(01 of08)
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With age, people are at greater risk of injury due to falling. Tai Chi promotes balance and works wonders in terms of preventing falls among seniors. (credit:Shutterstock)
Yoga(02 of08)
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Similar to Tai Chi, yoga also promotes balance and can prevent risky falls. In addition, yoga strengthens the body and increases flexibility--both crucial to effective exercising after 50. (credit:Shutterstock)
Strolling Through Hospital (03 of08)
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One study out of Israel shows that hospital patients who stay active by walking around their rooms or hospital hall ways cut their hospital days by a day and half on average.
Jogging(04 of08)
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Researchers at the University of Colorado showed that jogging can help people keep their memories in shape after illness.
Walking(05 of08)
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Studies show that people over 65 who walk or exercise moderately reduce their risk of dementia by one-third. (credit:Shutterstock)
Leg Exercises(06 of08)
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Leg exercises can reduce or prevent the swelling--peripheral edema--associated with aging. (credit:Shutterstock)
Weight Lifting(07 of08)
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One highly effect way to combat osteoporosis is weight lifting for thirty minutes three times per week. (credit:Shutterstock)
Swimming(08 of08)
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Swimming is effective in easing many of the symptoms of arthritis. People with arthritis who swim are less likely to fall and break a bone. (credit:Shutterstock)