Anna Possi, 101, Italy's oldest barista, credits longevity to eating little and staying busy

In the small Italian town of Nebbiuno, Anna Possi, at 101 years old, remains the active proprietor of Bar Centrale, a position she has held since 1958. Born in September 1925, Possi manages the establishment overlooking Lake Maggiore with a vigor uncommon for her age, personally attending to customers, cleaning tables, and preparing supplies.

Affectionately known as René, a name honoring her late husband, Possi has been recognized by the Italian General Confederation of Enterprises, Professions, and Self-Employment as the country's longest-serving barista. She has upheld the family legacy for 68 years, even after her husband's passing in 1974. Her disciplined daily schedule begins at six in the morning, followed by breakfast and then managing the bar with assistance from her daughter Cristina and a granddaughter.

Possi attributes her longevity to a simple philosophy: "If God wants me here, I'll be here. I wait for him to call me. My secret is to eat little and work. I always keep my mind busy doing things, I don't give up on the reality I have." Her diet is notably restrained, often consisting of just ten grams of spaghetti with butter or garlic and oil for lunch, and pea or chickpea puree for dinner, while she avoids meat and favors small portions.

Beyond her work at the bar, Possi engages her mind by analyzing the Milan stock exchange on her desktop computer, a mental exercise she performs without needing reading glasses. Her story has garnered significant attention, attracting tourists and even earning a mention during the Milan Winter Olympics. Despite her age, Possi remains practical about her future, stating, "I can't retire now because I'm paying social security contributions that I can only..."

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If God wants me here, I'll be here. I wait for him to call me. My secret is to eat little and work. I always keep my mind busy doing things, I don't give up on the reality I have.