91-year-Old Trapeze Artist Reveals Secrets to a Vibrant Life
SÃO PAULO – At 91, Johanna Truax is defying expectations and embracing life with a youthful spirit, offering insights into longevity gleaned from a life marked by hardship and a commitment to well-being. Truax, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday with a lively party at her home, credits lifestyle choices – regular exercise, nutritious food, sufficient sleep, and a positive outlook – for her vitality.
Truax, one of six children raised in poverty near Pittsburgh, revealed she grew up with a “terrible family history” of disease. “It was liberating to find out that I may not follow the footsteps of my parents, uncles and aunts,” she said. This realization fueled her determination to forge a diffrent path, supporting herself through university and securing a scholarship to nursing school.
Her active lifestyle continues today. For her 80th birthday, Truax took up trapeze, even convincing a friend ten years her junior to join her. She remains socially engaged, frequently volunteering, dancing, and attending social gatherings. “They are so busy that you need to mark time to find them,” noted researcher Eric Topol, who studied individuals like Truax.Despite occasional moments of solitude, Truax doesn’t feel lonely, choosing rather to “do something” to fill her time. Her current priorities are simple: tending to her garden and practicing kindness. As she approaches her 91st birthday in October, Truax hasn’t ruled out further adventures, considering flight lessons or horseback riding.