SHANGHAI (SCMP): A 107-year-old woman, dubbed the “age-defying granny,” has trended on mainland social media for her sound health and sharpness of mind.
Centenarian Ding Guijuan lives in Cixi, a small city in the eastern province of Zhejiang.
The local media outlet, Love Cixi, which is operated by the municipal propaganda authority, reported her story.
In the coverage in mid-April Ding shared her longevity tips and sent good wishes to her fans.
According to Ding’s daughter, Chen Xingchao, 84, physical examinations of her mother showed her health was up to standard across the board.
She does not have any of the “three hyper” illnesses, a term which refers to hypertension, hyperlipemia or hyperglycaemia which are common among senior citizens.
Ding has not developed any senile plaque on her face. She has never used skincare products.
“My mother eats well, sleeps well and has a good mindset. She remains happy every day,” Chen, who lives with her mother and takes care of her, told the media.
“She even has a better memory than me,” added Chen.
In front of the camera, Ding introduced herself by saying: “I am the oldest person in my residential community.”
“I hope everyone can stay healthy and live a long time,” she said.
Ding said she often taught her daughter how to prepare food and cook.
“My mother usually selects nutritious food. She has eaten vegetarian dishes for a long time. I think that is perhaps one reason for her longevity,” said Chen.
Ding’s story has sparked a heated online debate.
“I know of this granny who lives on Daxin Road. She has good skin. Her family are all kind to everyone. I see her often praying to Buddha,” one internet user said.
“Her family must have a longevity gene. Her daughter looks pretty young although she is already 84,” said another person.
A third person said: “I have received the blessings from this granny. I hope I can be healthy and live a long life like her.”
People who preserve a robust physical condition despite their advanced years and maintain a dynamic lifestyle often captivate social media in China.
In December, a 100-year-old grandmother-turned food blogger in Shanghai shot to fame for her enthusiasm for eating a range of foods, including strong flavoured dishes and modern favourites like milk tea, cola, coffee and ice cream.
Also in Shanghai, a 102-year-old husband and his wife two years younger trended online for appearing young and being able to cope with life by themselves.
The average life expectancy for Chinese people has reached 79.25 years old, 1.32 years longer than in 2020, said the National Health Commission director Lei Haichao in March. -- SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
