3 Golden Rules: The Oldest Practicing Physician Reveals How He Lived to 103
Dr. Howard Tucker of Cleveland is a neurologist who, despite turning 103, remains active in his profession. His life is proof that age doesn't have to limit either the body or the mind. He served as Chief of Neurology for the Atlantic Fleet during the Korean War, and today his story inspires scientists and media outlets worldwide.
Dr. Tucker puts it bluntly: Good genes and a bit of luck can give you an advantage, but there is one rule I live by: keep your mind engaged through work, social activities, and entertainment.
As we age, the brain naturally changes—processing slows, neural connections decrease, and blood flow decreases. Therefore, Tucker emphasizes, it needs to be exercised just like a muscle. His three daily rituals help maintain cognitive performance and mental clarity even after 100.
"I'm going to work"—that's his first rule. According to research cited by Tucker, early retirement can accelerate cognitive decline, while professional or mental activity slows it. The doctor never gave up practicing because the daily problem-solving and patient interaction kept his brain alert.
Even in his later years, he continued to develop, graduating from law school at 60 and passing the Ohio bar exam at 67. This proves that the brain needs challenges and constant learning to stay sharp.
Tucker's second principle is maintaining relationships. Research cited by the American Institutes of Health shows that strong social connections reduce the risk of dementia and depression and contribute to a longer lifespan. Tucker doesn't deny that he's lost many friends and loved ones in his 20s, but he still keeps in touch with his younger colleagues.
He and his wife, Sara, also a doctor who works at 89, try to spend time with family and friends every day. They meet their children for lunch twice a week, and they often dine with friends at their favorite restaurants in Cleveland. He emphasizes that social interaction is not only a joy but also a natural therapy for the brain.
Tucker's third ritual is reading for fun. The doctor believes that "immersing yourself in a good book requires your brain to process new information—it's key to keeping it sharp."
In addition to the three principles of mental activity, Tucker also promotes moderation in lifestyle. He has never smoked cigarettes and advises his students against the habit. He recalls that "smoking is dangerous"—and the increase in lung cancer in women correlated with the cigarette craze in the 20th century. He, on the other hand, takes a more measured approach to alcohol: "For me, moderation is the best. When people asked me about longevity, I joked: wine, women, and song—there's a lot of truth in that."
In her diet, she prioritizes simplicity and balance. For breakfast, she eats fresh fruit and toast, and for dinner, fish or chicken with vegetables. She doesn't shy away from small pleasures, because, as she emphasizes, "life is not a punishment, but an opportunity to enjoy it with a balanced mind and heart."
Despite turning 100, Tucker still exercises. He uses the treadmill, though—he jokes—at a much slower pace than before. Maintaining a daily exercise routine, regardless of intensity, is important to him. Regular activity improves circulation and oxygenates the brain, which, according to research from the National Institutes of Health, significantly slows down neurodegenerative processes . In the winter, he still snowshoes and accompanies his children on skis.
When asked by National Geographic about the secret to a long life, Tucker replies without hesitation: Stay physically and mentally active, absolutely no smoking, and no hatred.
Negative emotions, he explains, increase heart rate, blood pressure, and the risk of heart disease. "When you hate, you harm yourself physically. It's the same stress that comes with any type of anxiety," he says.
There's no exaggeration in his words—he speaks from the perspective of someone who treated patients during World War II and helped during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, he occasionally sees patients and teaches at Case Western Reserve University.
Before his 103rd birthday, he said: "I ignore my age. The most important thing is not to be afraid of the years ahead."
Copyrighted material - reprint rules are specified in the regulations .
rynekzdrowia
