101-year-old Woking care home resident shares secret to long life

 

Smiling, feeling young and staying active could be the three secrets to a long life, according to a resident at a care home in Woking on his 101^st birthday.

Albert Ronald Nolan, known by friends as Ron, who lives at Care UK’s Greenview Hall on Streets Heath, celebrated his 101^st birthday with balloons, banners and a delicious cake.

Ron was thrilled to be surrounded by his family and friends as they came together to celebrate his momentous day – and even shared some of his wisdom for reaching centenarian status.

When asked for his advice of living a long and happy life, Ron shared that the secret was: “Feeling young and active. Always smile!”

Ron was born in Amesbury on the 21^st July 1924. He joined the army as a young man before meeting his beloved wife, Joan Nolan, and having a son, Martin.

After serving his country, Ron worked as a decorator and later in insurance. His passions included reading, gardening and travelling, which saw Ron experience new cultures and countries including Germany, Italy, Austria and various parts of Africa.

Later in life, Ron and Joan moved to West End, and then to Greenview Hall.

Meera Govindapillai, Home Manager at Greenview Hall, said: “Ron is a much-loved resident at the home, and it was wonderful to see him surrounded by family and friends as we celebrated his special day. Ron is always smiling so it’s no wonder he has made it to 101 if this is the secret!

“We love to celebrate incredible milestones and Ron’s 101st birthday was a great way to create new memories while also reminiscing about old ones.

“It was lovely to raise a glass together on his special day and hear his advice for a long and healthy life.” 

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Greenview Hall incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The home provides full-time residential care, nursing care, dementia care and respite care. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.