Carla Villa, 101 years old: 'I get up at 7:30 and have coffee with cookies for breakfast'

Carla Villa, a 101-year-old resident of Milan, has become a local sensation for her remarkable vitality and youthful appearance, seemingly defying her age. Italy, known for its aging population, often features stories of centenarians maintaining impressive physical and mental health, and Villa is the latest to capture public attention.

Villa attributes her well-being to a consistent, yet not overly strict, lifestyle. She begins her day between 7:30 and 8:00 AM with coffee and biscuits, typically skips lunch, and dines on chicken with vegetables or fish. She admits that some traditional ingredients are harder to find now, making dishes like risotto alla milanese difficult to prepare authentically. Despite this, she enjoys occasional coffee ice cream, a treat brought by her son, Thomas.

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I get up between 7:30 and 8:00 and have breakfast with coffee and biscuits. I don't have lunch; I have chicken with vegetables or fish for dinner.

Her life, particularly after World War II, has forged a strong and courageous spirit. Villa experienced profound loss, including the death of her brother in Russia in 1942, which led to her mother's passing from grief. Later, she raised her son Thomas alone after his father refused responsibility, founding an antique shop in 1972 that sustained them until 1999.

Social engagement and gentle activity are also key components of her routine. While she has assistance at home, Villa enjoys slow walks in her neighborhood on pleasant days. Although her eyesight has declined, preventing her from reading her favorite newspaper, Corriere della Sera, she stays informed through television. Reflecting on her long life, Villa stated, "I always did what I wanted. Let's be clear, it wasn't easy..."

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I always did what I wanted. Let's be clear, it wasn't easy…