AmericaRoger Wonson, 100, says the keys to his long, healthy life are his passion for music, reducing his food intake and maintaining empathy.
Mr. Wonson held his 100th birthday party on April 20. At the party, he played the drums as the leader of the band The Current Current, which he founded a few years ago with members and staff at the nursing home. Wonson said his passion for music has helped him have a positive attitude to life.
The father of 9 children shared that he is proud that he is not a stereotypical and old-fashioned person despite his old age. He believes that his longevity is due to his cheerful personality and good genes inherited from his parents (his mother lived to be 100 years old, his father was nearly 90 years old).
Eat half a portion, drink lots of water and do weight training
Wonson practiced tennis 15 years ago, then continued to find his love for weight lifting. “I usually do a few rounds while watching TV commercials. It’s important for everyone to keep their muscles toned,” he said.
Still, Wonson is careful not to overexercise. Recently, he changed from 1.3 kg to 0.4 kg, following the advice of an expert.
By exercising, Wonson wants to improve his balance. About three months ago, he fell but luckily did not break any bones. Since then, Wonson has worked hard to improve his vestibular and stability.
He often jokes that he shares the same goal as 2-year-old Declan, the youngest grandchild of the Wonson family. “We are in a similar state. But if he falls, he will get up faster than me,” he humorously shared.
Normally, at Current Beverly Nursing Home – where Wonson lives, chefs will serve one portion of food per meal. However, he eats half portions and lots of vegetables. Wonson focuses more on drinking enough water every day, occasionally enjoying a glass of wine.
Mr. Wonson’s eating method is similar to the Japanese principle of stopping eating when 80% full, also known as “hara hachi bu”. This principle is based on the scientifically proven phenomenon that the stomach needs 20 minutes to send signals to the brain about the amount of food the body has absorbed. Instead of continuing to eat until you’re full, put away your bowl and chopsticks when you’re still a little hungry. A moment later, the body will feel comfortable and at ease.
Roger Wonson celebrates his 100th birthday. Photo: Current Beverly
Show empathy
Wonson said the secret to strong relationships is empathy.
“It’s easy to get angry and confrontational if you don’t put yourself in the other person’s shoes and try to see their point of view. A better approach is to consider their argument first,” he said.
He shared that he and his wife always listen and respect each other’s opinions. He believes that people think carefully before saying something regrettable to their loved ones. This is a lesson passed down to his father, who “rarely gets angry and loses his temper”, according to his description. Wonson believes that harmony is the key to a healthy and long life, because stress weakens the immune system.
This has been proven by scientists over many years. Research by Dr. Eric Klopack and colleagues at the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California shows that social stress, suffering injustice, family, work and money problems can cause the system to premature aging of the immune system.
Scientists found that in people with high levels of stress, sickle cells develop more strongly. These cells are harmful to the body because they release many proteins that affect surrounding tissues, causing chronic inflammation. When sickle cells accumulate in the body, they also promote aging conditions, such as osteoporosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Alzheimer’s.
Find your passion
Wonson was a communications expert who had a steady career after World War II, when he left the US Air Force to work for a government missile development company. However, he did not let his 40-year job define him. He found his passion in playing music, and was even recruited as a professional singer. He played saxophone and drums in several bands in Massachusetts.
“I love the melody of the saxophone and the sound of the drums. When you entertain people, you get joy from the students,” he said.
Wonson, who owns 40 saxophones, said playing the trumpet and drums keeps his mind sharp. He also enjoys taking still life photos and listening to Ted Talks.