Eat your vegetables, enjoy fruit twice daily, and maintain a relentlessly positive outlook. According to Perth's Elsie Cotton, these are the foundational secrets that have helped her join the exclusive centenarian's club.
A Milestone Celebration in Samson
Ms Cotton recently marked her remarkable 100th birthday, with family and friends traveling from across the nation to gather in Samson, Perth, for the joyous occasion. The celebration highlighted not just her age, but the vibrant life she continues to lead well into her second century.
The Dietary Philosophy of a Centenarian
In an exclusive conversation with PerthNow, Elsie Cotton credited her longevity to disciplined eating habits and an optimistic mindset. "When I cook for myself, which I do often, I always make sure I have five veggies and fruit at lunch and dinner," she revealed, outlining her nutritional approach that has stood the test of time.
"I've got a positive mind as well, I never let things get me down... my cup is always half full, it's never half empty," Ms Cotton added, emphasizing how her mental attitude has been just as crucial as her dietary choices in reaching this significant milestone.
Age as Just a Number
For this spirited Perth woman, chronological age remains merely a numerical detail. Ms Cotton continues to prepare her own meals, shares humorous emails with friends, and enjoys dancing sessions with fellow residents at her Samson retirement village.
"I was out dancing — well, the top half anyway," she laughed during her birthday celebrations. "The feet were good to start with but not by the end of the night." Her playful comment underscores the joyful approach she brings to daily living.
A Life of Resilience and Adventure
Born in a tent in Pemberton in 1926, Elsie Cotton developed resilience and independence from an early age, leaving school at 14 to begin working. Her daughter Marilyn Browne spoke affectionately about her mother's remarkable adaptability and skill acquisition throughout her life.
"She's always been independent and very smart," Ms Browne explained. "She's a fantastic seamstress too and used to make all of my dancing costumes and my brother's work trousers."
Sixty-Six Years of Shared Adventure
Elsie Cotton shared 66 years of marriage with her late husband Ron, a partnership characterized by adventure and spontaneity. Ms Browne recalled one particularly memorable instance that captured their spirited approach to life.
"One time mum was upset about being stuck at home on a Saturday night," she shared. "So, they jumped in their van, drove to the corner and dad asked her, 'left or right', and they ended up camping out there for the night."
This adventurous spirit continued throughout Elsie's life, with international travels to the United Kingdom and Europe, alongside numerous camping adventures using various campervans and caravans. "She'd be off somewhere tomorrow if she could," her daughter noted with admiration.
Reflecting on a Century Well-Lived
When asked about reaching the impressive age of 100, Ms Cotton offered a beautifully simple reflection on her life's journey. "I have had a wonderful life, a wonderful family and a wonderful husband," she stated, summarizing a century filled with love, adventure, and positive living.
Her story serves as an inspiring testament to how simple habits—nutritious eating, mental positivity, and an adventurous spirit—can combine to create not just longevity, but a life truly worth celebrating.
