After 100th Birthday In Bergen County, Rosemarie Reveals 1 Secret To Long Life

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — Rosemarie Menzies recently celebrated her 100th birthday at the Harmony Village at CareOne in Paramus, and shared the secret to a long life, when asked for a tip.

Menzies isn't alone. There were more than 89,000 centenarians in the U.S. as of 2021, researchers say, a number that has doubled in ten years.

The increase is largely due to medical advances and medical advice (eat right, exercise). But genetics have an impact too, as does luck, experts say.

So for those who want a long life, what should they do?

"There's no secret," Menzies said, when asked last week. "Just laugh a lot."

Sounds like a secret that shouldn't be kept secret!

When Rosemarie was born in Jersey City in August of 1923, President Warren Harding had just died suddenly two weeks earlier, and "Silent Cal" Coolidge took over.

Last week, the staff at CareOne threw Menzies a Gatsby-themed birthday party, as F. Scott Fitzgerald's Jazz Age novel was published in 1925.

A spokesperson for the retirement home said, "Rosemarie and the rest of the Harmony Village at CareOne Paramus residents enjoyed a musical performance by Mary Taylor, who sang songs from the 1920s. Later on, everyone enjoyed food, cake, and a toast at the Gatsby Social, where Paramus Mayor Christopher DiPiazza presented her with a Certificate of Commendation."

In attendance were Menzies' daughter Michele (pictured). So were friends at the home, including administrator Risa Kory, RN.

Do you have a loved one in Bergen County about to celebrate a significant birthday? Let Patch know. We will want to know their own tips to a long life! And leave yours below in the comments.