VICE: What would you say is the secret to a long and happy life?
Ilse Simchen: Be laid back and optimistic. I have a few pessimistic friends, but I never argue with them—I just leave them to their opinions. You’ll be a lot happier if you focus on the pleasant things in life. That would also be my advice to all those old people who just talk about their illnesses.

https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/paa7kg/talking-about-sex-and-war-with-a-woman-who-is-102-years-old