The Everyday Supercentenarian

At 110 years old, Vincent Dranseld defies expectations by driving daily, maintaining his independence, and living solo in his New Jersey home since 1945.

Unlike many seniors, Dranseld requires no assistance, displaying a self-sufficiency that astounds his family, friends, and medical professionals alike

Health and Longevity: A Rare Phenomenon

Men reaching Dranseld's age are an anomaly; only 15% of centenarians and 10% of supercentenarians are male, according to the New England Centenarian Study. His extraordinary health is part of what makes his journey compelling. He's free from major ailments like cancer or heart disease and only recently had his second-ever experience with anesthesia.

Connection and Community

One of Dranseld's secrets? Staying active in the community. He served over 80 years in the local volunteer fire department, forming lasting friendships that kept him going after his wife’s passing. Every day, from 3 to 5 PM, he socialized at the firehouse, where he felt a sense of belonging and purpose.

Life and Work: A Symbiotic Relationship

Dranseld’s commitment to work is another facet of his longevity blueprint. Leaving school in eighth grade to work on a dairy farm, he started early, which he credits for his solid foundation of health. Later, he worked 60 years as an auto parts manager, retiring only in his late 70s at his wife’s insistence.

The Power of Positivity

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Dranseld’s longevity is his optimistic outlook. Maintaining a positive attitude and a sense of humor, he believes in the power of social connections. “Knowing people and loving people makes me live longer,” he says. Even after suffering personal losses, he chooses resilience and the determination to live life fully.

Vincent Dranseld’s life serves as an inspiring model of healthy aging. His story suggests that the keys to longevity may be simpler and more accessible than we think. By staying active, maintaining social connections, enjoying a balanced diet, and keeping a positive outlook, Dranseld demonstrates that living well into one's second century is not just about genetic luck but also about lifestyle choices.

While science continues to explore the biological mechanisms behind longevity, Dranseld's approach highlights the importance of the less tangible aspects of health: community, purpose, and mindset. In an age where the pursuit of youth often leads to the latest fad diets or exercise regimes, his life reminds us that joy, connection, and a proactive attitude can be just as crucial to a long, fulfilling life.