A 109-year-old care home resident has revealed the three things she credits for her long and happy life.
Maria Dolores celebrated her birthday on Wednesday (9 April) surrounded by her loved ones.
She is the longest-serving guest at the home where she lives alongside around 120 other residents, as reported by Need To Know.
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Staff marked Maria’s 109th year with a special cake and invited Marilena, Cesare and Fiorello – the grandchildren of the woman who adopted her many years ago.
While reflecting on her long and happy life, Maria has revealed the three simple things she swears by—a can of orange juice, a spot of chocolate, and loving relationships.
Along with a healthy dose of vitamin C and sweet treats from guests, Maria credits the love of staff and family members for making a difference.
She says Marilena, Casare and Fiorello often bring her chocolates – and she believes the small, affectionate gesture keeps her in good health.
Maria says she also cherishes the old memories she has with friends.
The 109-year-old was born in the middle of WWI in Trepuzzi, Italy, and lost contact with her biological family after she was put up for adoption.
She was taken in by a family who loved her, and she is still closely connected to them to this day.
Maria lives at the Filograna Foundation, which is located in Casarano, Italy.
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