PHOENIX – Today, many people are living longer lives, but there is an exceptional group known as the Super Agers.
These individuals, typically in their 80s and older, possess cognitive abilities comparable to those many decades their junior.
Among them is Dorothy Boucek, a vivacious 100-year-old woman currently participating in scientific studies aimed at unraveling the secrets behind her remarkable longevity and robust health.
Dorothy Boucek personifies effervescence, her spirited demeanor exuding warmth and joy in every room she enters.
Draped in her signature leopard print, she radiates a zest for life.
“I am happy, I am very happy,” Boucek expressed with a twinkle in her eye.
Originally hailing from Chicago, Boucek reminisced about her upbringing in a “happy Czechoslovakian family,” relishing traditional cuisine and, notably, wine.
“When we became the age of 10 at the dinner table, we were allowed a shot glass of Mogen David red wine. At the age of 10. From then on, I drank wine almost every night. I still drink wine,” revealed Boucek.
Boucek maintains a lifestyle fraught with wholesome choices – from her nutritious diet and ample rest to her affinity for dancing and social interactions. She was once a member of the Rhythm Tappers in Sun City and continues to lead an active life in her senior community in Chandler.
“When I walk into the dining room, the lobby is full of people and I call out, real loud, age before beauty,” Boucek teased. “And I walk in first!”
It’s not uncommon to see Boucek outshining her younger counterparts on the dance floor.
Her lifestyle habits, both past and present, are currently the subject of scientific inquiry, as she is an integral part of the Super Agers Family Study.
“We’re very interested in genetics and the contribution of genetics to living long and healthy lives,” explained Dr. Sofiya Milman, leading the aforementioned study at Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Dr. Milman’s team seeks to recruit 10,000 participants aged 95 and older, alongside their family members. She believes that by deciphering Boucek’s genetic makeup, they might harness powerful insights beneficial for extending the lives of others.
“We think in the future people will be able to take a pill that will help them live longer and healthier that will mimic the action and the function of these longevity genes,” Dr. Milman boldly predicted.
Boucek is gratified to be part of this endeavor, attributing her vitality to a lifetime of contentment and gratitude.
“I think a lot has to do with the fact that I’m a happy person, I’ve had a wonderful life, I have a wonderful son and my illustrious daughter-in-law, Beth,” expressed Boucek. “I don’t know what I’d do without them.”
Super Agers Family Study
