What is it about Italy and seniors looking so young?
One thing we’ve noticed here in Rome – and really, all of Europe – is that older people don’t seem to age. Sure, they’ve got white hair and a few wrinkles, but they don’t seem to be aware that they’re actually senior citizens. In fact, quite the opposite – they seem incredibly youthful. Instead of slowing down, they’re keeping up the same pace. In lieu of sweat pants, they’re dressed to the nines. Sit at home all day? No way. Unlike Americans who are often missing the point, Roman seniors are out and about, living life to the fullest.
It’s not uncommon to see grannies speed by on motorcyles. Grandpas clad in skinny jeans run after their grandchildren. Elderly couples so in love, they rival their teenage counterparts. And a whole gaggle of seniors out for dinner, drinking wine and gossiping, close to midnight.
If this is old age, sign us up.
Even the way they dress is spot on. Fur coats. Stylish sunglasses. Chic scarves. And lots of high heels. Nothing’s more impressive than seeing a woman well into her 80s effortlessly navigating the uneven cobblestones and worn out sidewalks of Rome in three-inch heels.
So what’s the secret? Is it the daily gelato? Freshly made pasta? Red wine at lunch? Maybe it’s the afternoon siesta. The nightly evening stroll. Or spending time with family and friends on a regular basis. Perhaps it’s all these things combined. We’re thinking the real secret is pretty simple: they don’t actually think they’re old.
Whatever it is, it’s working. La Dolce Vita is alive and kicking in these centenarians. Here’s hoping we all grow up to be Italian.
