A very special birthday celebration in Manatee County.
On Monday, the staff at Westminster Manor in Bradenton had a party for some of their residents turning 100 years old and older.
“You kind of get to brag about it when you get old,” said Helen Crum.
Crum is turning 104 years old this month along with George Bennett.
“The days go by faster than you think,” said Bennett.
Just this month, two residents turned 104, one turned 100 and another 106!
A few others will be celebrating their 100-plus birthday in the coming months.
So, what’s their secret?
“As long as we live, we should keep learning something,” said Juanita Stabler, who is turning 106 this month. “I think that’s what helps keep your brain active and helps keeps us from having Alzheimer’s.”
Crum said she thinks it’s just luck.
“It’s what you’re born with,” said Crum. “It’s your genes and your lifestyle.”
Leona Gordon, who just turned 100, said she thinks it’s all about taking care of your body.
“I had vitamins all of my life,” she said. “My mother said to never smoke or drink, and I never did, so maybe that’s why I’m here.”
Gordon and George Goeth, who is turning 102 this year, are considered the babies of the group.
“I’m the new kid on the block,” said Goeth.
200 residents live at Westminster Manor and range in age from 66 to 106.
Out of the group, eight are 100 and older.
Sandra Knoble, Executive Director, of Westminster Manor, said they are happy to provide a good home for the special group.
“We’re privileged to be part of their home and lives,” she said.
Joe Buechler, who will be turning 103 in December, said he hopes to celebrate more birthdays with his friends again.
“I’m trying to make it to 105,” he said. “We’ll see what happens from here on.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of residents 100 and older has grown more than 65% over the past three decades.
Women make up the majority of those centenarians.