The Unexpected Encounter: Wisdom and Vitality at María Luisa’s 106th Birthday

Here’s the translation to American English:

Traveling through Spain and discovering the 20,000 centenarians in the country has become an exciting task for renowned cardiologist Manuel de la Peña Alonso-Araujo. This researcher has stumbled upon a true treasure: supercentenarians, human beings who surpass the age of 110 and who share not only their life stories but also valuable secrets about longevity. In just a few days, the videos documenting his encounters have captured the attention of millions, reaching over 6 million views on social media.

One of the most striking interviews was with María Luisa Merelles, who is about to celebrate her 106th birthday on July 15. With an exceptionally active mind, María Luisa has taught Dr. de la Peña to play solitaire on his phone and maintains vibrant contact with her friends to enjoy a full social life. She has lived steadfastly through two world wars and various pandemics, never fearing death and cherishing every moment. The doctor describes her charisma and penetrating gaze as a reflection of her rich personality.

The legacy of wisdom that supercentenarians offer is vast. Figures like Jeanne Calment, the longest-lived person on record, along with others like Kane Tanaka and Sarah Knauss, have left their mark on history. Manuel de la Peña believes that age is largely a mental barrier, and through his work “Guide to Living Healthily to 120,” he aims to inspire others by sharing moving and human stories.

What began as a professional investigation has evolved into a personal vocation for De la Peña. Through regular blood pressure checks and health studies, he has found that many of these supercentenarians exhibit optimal levels of cholesterol and blood pressure—factors that contribute to their longevity. This work has created a community among them, who had previously thought they were the only ones to reach such ages.

The impact of his work has also been felt in the medical community, challenging myths and seeking to ensure the best care for older adults. From the European Institute of Health and Social Well-Being, De la Peña has promoted an approach where research, science, and humanism merge, proposing to humanize medicine and recognize the wealth that older individuals bring to society. His commitment to social well-being and longevity has earned him recognition as a Health and Life Ambassador.

If you need any changes or further assistance, feel free to ask!

Referrer: MiMub in Spanish

Scroll to Top
×