A study of centenarians has revealed that developing close friendships and family ties is key if you want to live to 100.
The researchers quizzed 188 centenarians on the secrets of their staying power. They found that most classed themselves as sociable, open-minded and optimistic.
Many were still physically active, with 60 per cent going on regular walks or taking other forms of exercise.
Researcher Robyn Richmond said genetics accounts for just 20 to 30 per cent of a person's chances of living to 100, meaning personality and lifestyle have a major impact.
'Social contact with family and friends is very important,' she said. 'Centenarians have built up strong solid relationships, seeing family, friends and neighbours regularly.
'If they don't have children, if they have very strong connections with their friends or if they are living in a nursing home that gets them doing interesting things with others who live there, they are more likely to live to 100.'
Professor Richmond, of New South Wales University in Sydney, which led the survey, said: 'Low neuroticism is a personality trait.
'They are not prone to negative emotions, so they are not hostile to others, not angry or guilty, not anxious or depressed.
'Centenarians are open to change. They have lived through trials and tribulations. They also tend to be extraverts.
'They are conscientious, which means they follow doctors' advice about a healthy lifestyle.
'Half have a drink each day but none a risky level of alcohol consumption.
'It means even if you have got bad genes but you live a healthy life and stay positive, you could still have a very long life.'
Advances in healthcare and healthier lifestyles means one in eight Britons turning 50 this year is predicted to reach 100.
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