100-Year-Old Nurse Shares Advice for a Long Life after King Charles Greeted Her on Her Birthday

A woman from South Kirby, West Yorkshire, England, turned 100 and shared her secret to longevity. She also received a gift from someone special, making her big day all the more memorable.

Becoming a centenarian is no small achievement. Very few citizens reach triple digits, and those who do often have a few pieces of advice for a well-lived life.

Olive Westerman is a retired nurse who spent many years traveling with her husband. After his passing, she was grateful to have found a loving community at a nursing home.

Westerman made many friends there, and they celebrated her birthday together. The residents gave her a sentimental present—it was one of two gifts she treasured deeply.

Her 100th Birthday Was a Time for Reflection

For her January 16, 2023 birthday, Westerman was spoiled with a high tea at Inglewood Manor. She also reflected on the fantastic adventures she experienced throughout her lifetime.

Her husband, Sam, was a travel clerk and writer, so they visited new places frequently. Westerman remembered their time in Singapore with fondness. They lived there for three years and savored every moment.

Having had the opportunity to spend her days trotting around the globe with the love of her life is something the senior citizen has always cherished.

The centenarian cherished every day and didn't hold back when asked to share her tips for living a long life. Her candid advice was unique, and she stood by it, noting that avoiding a particular group of people was essential.

She Could Not Believe She Was a Centenarian

The couple never had kids, but Westerman worked as a nursery nurse and interacted with little ones for many years. The busy children kept her young at heart, and she believed they were responsible for her youthfulness.

Westerman couldn't believe she had been alive for ten decades and didn't feel her age. She was still active and had a vibrance about her. The centenarian said:

"I actually can't believe I'm now 100, but it feels amazing."

A Sentimental Birthday Gift

Westerman's fellow residents at the Deewater Grange nursing home gave her a present that meant the world to her. It was a bottle of Estee Lauder perfume.

The fragrance was sentimental because it was the same gift her late husband gave her for her birthday each year.

She met Sam at church in their youth and was drawn to his gentle nature and desire to help everyone. Honoring his memory in small ways was special and made Westerman smile.

Her Unique Secret to Living a Long Life

Westerman was known for her sense of humor. While she missed her spouse dearly, she kept going and never gave up. The centenarian cherished every day and didn't hold back when asked to share her tips for living a long life.

Her candid advice was unique, and she stood by it, noting that avoiding a particular group of people was essential. Westerman explained:

"Avoid talking to strange men, and you'll be just fine."

Westerman added a few more tips for longevity, including the practices of contentment and happiness. Making the most of one's circumstances was the best advice she could give, and she believed that kept her going for many years.

A Birthday Card She Would Treasure Forever

Aside from the beloved bottle of perfume she received for her birthday, Westerman was delighted to get another unforgettable gift. It was a card that came from someone prestigious.

The King of England and his Queen Consort sent Westerman a special message and acknowledged her on her 100th birthday. The centenarian was flattered by the greeting and shared:

"I was absolutely thrilled to receive a card from King Charles and Camilla."

The Online Reaction

The online community wished Westerman well on her special day, and many agreed with her advice. People also shared the tips their elderly loved ones passed on to them:

"Happy birthday. My great-great aunt's [advice] was [to have] fun. She passed away at 109."

- (Lavinia Cunlisk) January 25, 2023

"Bless you. You are doing very well. Happy birthday and congratulations."

- (Jeanette Marie Hannen) January 25, 2023

"I can’t help but smile! I loved working with children and as far as strange men- there are so many!"

- (Cynthia Jurinko) January 25, 2023

"Happy Birthday. Enjoy your day and evening. Congratulations to you on your special day. 100 years."

- (Lynette Van Der Sluis) January 25, 2023

Westerman's positive attitude and smile are inspiring. Her advice for living a long and happy life surprised people and made many laugh. She is a one-of-a-kind woman, and we wish her many more years of happiness and joy!

Click here for a story about a woman who celebrated her 107th birthday. She still wore make-up and earrings, while valuing the simple things in life. She had a short but impactful message for everyone wondering how she reached such a significant milestone.