Jessie Gallan, at the time Scotland’s oldest woman, gave an interview where she shared some humorous yet simple advice for a long, happy, and healthy life. Born in the early 1900s on a small farm cottage, Jessie grew up with five sisters and one brother, all sleeping in a single room on a straw mattress with their heads at one end and their feet at the other.
Jessie’s secrets to longevity were straightforward: first, eat porridge every day for breakfast. Porridge is a type of hot cereal made by boiling grains in water or milk, and oatmeal is one common variation. At the age of 108, Jessie credited porridge for her long and healthy life.
However, on her 109th birthday, Jessie added another secret to her list: avoiding relationships with men. She believed that steering clear of romantic entanglements with the opposite sex was crucial for a long life.
During an interview, Jessie shared her secret to a long life, stating that “staying away from men” was the key. She also emphasized the importance of exercise and eating a warm bowl of porridge every morning. Jessie, a self-sufficient woman, had been working hard since her teenage years. She left her home at the age of 13 and supported herself throughout her life. Despite societal norms, she made the decision to never get married. At 109 years old, Jessie’s lively and somewhat amusing personality shone through as she shared her unique life philosophy.
“I worked hard and seldom would I ever take a holiday,” Jessie said.
Jessie shared in an interview that she had a strong work ethic and rarely took vacations. Her caregiver at the nursing home described her as “absolutely amazing.” However, in 2015, Jessie’s health began to decline, and she passed away peacefully in her own bed with family by her side at the age of 109.
A recent study conducted in the United States surveyed individuals over the age of 100 and found that spending time with loved ones and prioritizing physical health were important factors for living a long life.
During an interview, Jessie shared her secret to a long life, stating that “staying away from men” was the key. She also emphasized the importance of exercise and eating a warm bowl of porridge every morning. Jessie, a self-sufficient woman, had been working hard since her teenage years. She left her home at the age of 13 and supported herself throughout her life. Despite societal norms, she made the decision to never get married. At 109 years old, Jessie’s lively and somewhat amusing personality shone through as she shared her unique life philosophy.