When you consider the benefit of making good decisions today to benefit later years, here's an example to follow. Susan Young Browne, a 108-year-old centenarian, drives her blue Subaru everywhere she needs to go and just renewed her driver's license until 2033.
“In order for me to go to the store, I have to drive. Anywhere I want to go, I have to drive. … I’m an experienced driver. I try to be very careful," she told NBC 5 in Chicago.
So, what makes her special? Browne was born on a farm in Lincoln, Delaware, in 1918, and went on to become a teacher after graduating from Delaware State University. In her era, students were segregated and Black kids even had to pay to attend high school. But she powered through, and never looked back.
She credits five things have kept her ticking long after her peers. Her tips for a long, healthy life are simple and include: regular exercise, including a 10-minute stretching routine every morning, and a diet that includes chicken, fruit, and black coffee.
A 108-year-old woman just renewed her driver’s license until 2033 and lives in her own house. Here are her tips to live a long and happy life. https://t.co/dX5xzqKY6y
— NBC10 Philadelphia (@NBCPhiladelphia) July 23, 2026
Browne avoids fried foods, alcohol, and sugar, except for her homemade 7UP cake on special occasions, and only takes one medication for blood pressure control. She does eat an apple every single day.
After all, she has a lot to live for. Browne says she values her independence, enjoys reading romance novels, doing puzzles, and staying active in her community, including attending church and sorority meetings.
“I decided when I was left alone that I didn’t need anybody to take care of me, I take care of myself. So, in order to live a healthy life, you have to make up your own mind," she told the television station.
