Mildred Kirschenbaum has lived a full century—and she’s using her voice, and her iPhone, to remind us that how you live often matters more than how long you live.

At 100 years old, Mildred lives alone, drives herself, texts her loved ones, pays her bills online, and never misses a happy hour. But it’s not just her independence that’s grabbing the world’s attention—it’s her perspective.

“I want to share a thought about attitude,” she says in one of her now-viral videos. “I recently turned 100. And yet, I have friends who are 15-20 years younger, and their attitudes are going to cause them not to survive to my age.”

What’s their problem?

“They’re not grateful for anything,” Mildred explains. “They complain their food was cold, or that their kids don’t visit enough. That’s not acceptable.”

Her take is refreshingly simple and deeply wise:

“If the food isn’t quite right—have an extra dessert.
If your kids only call once a week—call them back and be grateful they’re enjoying life.
Look at the positive side. That’s what got me this far.”

Her advice doesn’t end with positivity. She’s big on forgiveness too.

“At 100, I might not wake up the next day. Why go to bed angry? If someone’s not important to you, let it go. If they are—reach out.”

And don’t expect her to fall behind when it comes to technology.

“We live in a computer world. Either you go with the flow or fall off the train,” she laughs. “Don’t say ‘I don’t know how to retrieve emails.’ There’s no such thing as ‘I don’t know.’”

She owns an iPhone, iPad, and a PC—and uses them daily to stay connected, bank online, play games, and film her videos.

Her practical advice also extends to everyday life: how to get up safely if you fall, why she chooses to live alone, and even her highly requested chicken soup recipe. (“Taste it. Add salt. Don’t be afraid to improvise.”)

But most of all, Mildred believes in staying social. She plays bridge and canasta to keep her mind sharp—and never misses a chance to attend happy hour at the local clubhouse.

“I do enjoy happy hour,” she smiles. “There’s usually no one there even close to my age—but that’s no problem whatsoever.”

In a world that often glorifies youth, Mildred is a reminder that aging with intention, humor, and heart is the real goal.

We could all use a little of her wisdom.
And maybe an extra dessert. ❤️🥂