According to Today, Dr. Howard Tucker has been officially recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest practicing doctor in the world. At 100 years old, this neurologist has dedicated 75 years to medicine and currently goes to work twice a week.
“I think when people retire, they face withering away and eventually ending up in a nursing home. Being alive and working is a joy… it’s a wonderful job. Every day I learn something new,” said the 100-year-old doctor.
Born on July 10, 1922, in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Tucker humorously shared that when his family gathered to celebrate his 100th birthday last month, he received an unexpected “COVID-19 gift” from a relative. That relative hugged and kissed him, unknowingly passing him the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Fortunately, he recovered quickly.
Not only did he survive the pandemic, but he also lived through major historical events like the Great Depression of the 1930s, World War II, and a century filled with ongoing crises.
Dr. Tucker has never faced any serious illness except for a broken neck from a skiing accident in his 80s, from which he fully recovered.
Speaking to Today about his longevity secrets, Dr. Tucker credits good genetics as a strong advantage. He inherited longevity genes from his ancestors but also pays close attention to nutrition, moderates alcohol intake, and focuses on happiness. His mother lived to 84 and his father to 96.
He has never smoked, drinks a little socially, and sometimes enjoys a martini on Friday nights. When it comes to food, he prefers everything in moderation.
He regularly swims, runs, and skis. He still works out daily in his home gym.
Another remarkable highlight in Dr. Tucker’s life is that at age 67, he passed the Ohio Bar Exam, showing his interest in law alongside medicine.
With such an inspiring life story, Dr. Tucker’s journey is featured in an upcoming documentary titled “What’s Next?” which is currently in post-production.
