“Bring It On!” — Participants 90+ Share Their Secrets to Aging Well
What’s the secret to aging well? We asked the experts — not scientists or gerontologists, but the ones who’ve been living it — Road Scholar participants in their 90s. These lifelong learners and adventurers shared their thoughts on staying active, staying curious and finding joy in the fourth age of life.
Their advice is honest, funny and full of hard-won wisdom. Here’s what they had to say.
“Live every day to the fullest.”
Bill S., Austin, TX | Age 91
“Exploration in my 90s isn’t all that different from my 80s, but I pay more attention to activity levels now. I’ve done 18 Road Scholar programs (and counting). Don’t worry about what you can’t do — focus on what you can do that’s meaningful and fun.”
“Take it a day at a time.”
Irv M., Evanston, IL | Age 89 (but don’t tell anyone)
“I’ve worked out every day for 60 years. I travel because there are still places I want to see. Life throws curveballs, but it helps to stay connected. After being widowed, I found a partner, and with the Road Scholar community, we’re certainly not alone. Thank you for making it easy to keep learning and meeting people.”
“Stay curious. Keep moving.”
Prue B., Palo Alto, CA | Age 90
“It’s fun to surprise people — to show them some of us at 90 can still carry suitcases and keep up with the group. Road Scholar makes it ridiculously easy, and I try to keep doing what I’ve always done — exercise, have friends, stay busy and enjoy the occasional adrenaline rush from a travel glitch!”
Participants on the Oxoaca program in Mexico.
“Find something to look forward to.”
Elaine G., New York, NY | Age 93
“My husband (also 93!) and I have gone on nearly 30 Road Scholar programs. We feel more confident and comfortable on programs tailored for us, and that makes it easier to keep exploring. I still love the anticipation, the joy of planning — it adds to your emotional well-being.”
“Keep going — even when life changes.”
Anne B., Miami, FL | Age 92
“After taking time for myself following my husband’s illness and passing, I returned to Road Scholar adventures in my 90s — this time with my children! My daughter and son fell in love with it too, and I’ve had more joyful memories with them through Road Scholar than I ever expected at this age.”
“Curiosity is essential.”
Wes W., Missoula, MT | Age 91
“After traveling with my wife for years, I’m now exploring the world solo. Going alone is more difficult, but Road Scholar helps smooth out the bumps. At 91, I know luck plays a part in how we age — but so do curiosity and staying active.”
Participants on the Portland program in Oregon.
“Be the traveler who inspires others.”
Sally P., Washington, NJ | Age 91
“I’ve been on 64 Road Scholar programs. People are often surprised I’m still traveling at my age — but that’s exactly why I keep doing it. My roommate on one of my first programs was over 90, and she inspired me. Now I try to do the same for others. I’ve always been around active older people, so age never seemed like a big deal as long as you’re lucky enough to stay healthy.”
“Flaunt your age — you’ve earned it.”
Keith K., Winnipeg, MB, Canada | Age 91
“My wife and I are about to set out on our biggest adventure yet — World Academy on Queen Anne: Australia, South Africa & Beyond. Traveling in your 90s has its challenges, but the key is to stay curious, stay social and avoid falling — seriously, that’s a big one. Exploring helps keep the spirit young and the connections strong.”
“Each day is a gift. Use it wisely.”
Mary L., Boynton Beach, FL | Age 91
“I refuse to have my age define me, and exploring the world adds to my sense of independence. It makes me feel like, ‘I can do this — bring it on!’”
Participants on the Galápagos Islands program in Ecuador.
Want to hear more from inspiring older adults?
Join our Age Adventurously Facebook group to connect with others who believe that growing older means growing bolder. Also, be sure to explore our free Age Well online lecture series to learn from experts on aging with vitality and purpose.