Alexander Imich, an 111-year-old Polish immigrant and Soviet gulag survivor who lives in Manhattan, became the world's oldest living man last month when the previous record-holder, Arturo Licata, died just days before his 112th birthday.
Imich has lived through the introduction and/or proliferation of electric lights, automobile and airplane travel, television, refrigerators, microwaves, and space travel.
Can you even imagine?
So what's the secret? Here's what he told the Times:
• Not having children.
• Not drinking alcohol.
• Quitting smoking.
• Playing multiple sports. “I was a gymnast,” he said. “Good runner, a good springer. Good javelin, and I was a good swimmer.”
• A diet “inspired by Eastern mystics who disdain food,” the Times said. (According to Imich's caregivers, he eats matzo balls, gefilte fish, chicken noodle soup, Ritz crackers, scrambled eggs, chocolate and ice cream.)
• “Good genes,” Imich said.
I suppose the stresses associated with having children do weigh heavy on the health of a caring parent – but would you want to live to see 111 years of age, without children and grandchildren?
I know having children is not for everyone – but for me, I simply cannot imagine my life without my kids.
image – news source
