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- My 93-year-old great aunt lives alone in Las Vegas. I worry about her, but she loves her independence and keeps herself busy. (businessinsider.com)
Las Vegas Nonagenarian Proves Age is Just a Number, Living Independently and Loving Life
Las Vegas, NV – Meet Beverly, a spirited 93-year-old great aunt who has called Las Vegas home for the past two decades. Despite her age, Beverly is a beacon of independence, wit, and a bustling social life, much to the admiration (and slight worry) of her younger relatives.
Known for her bright red hair, infectious laugh, and a talent for delivering hilarious one-liners in a Brooklyn accent, Beverly has always been a highlight of family gatherings. For her great-niece, Anna Zucker, Beverly has served as a vital link to a cherished generation, especially after the passing of all her grandparents by the age of 12.
“Aunt Beverly is independent, witty, and still very much herself,” Zucker shared. “She may live alone, but she has a full life. While younger relatives like me can’t help but worry, she insists she doesn’t need – or want – my concern.”
Beverly’s journey to Las Vegas began in 1990 with her late husband, Herbert. After his cancer diagnosis, she promised him a move to the desert city if he recovered.
They enjoyed 16 years there before Herbert’s passing in 2006. Beverly chose to remain in Las Vegas, surrounded by the strong friendships she had cultivated.
Her son lives in San Francisco, and her daughter in North Carolina has extended invitations to move in for years, but Beverly is content with her solo lifestyle. “As my lady friends become widows, they’re very happy living alone,” she recounted. “If you’re mobile and your issues are manageable, you can do it.”
Beverly, who drove until she was 88, has a robust support system. Her son arranges grocery deliveries and house cleaning, and she has rides to doctor’s appointments.
When asked about potentially living with a friend, her signature wit shone through: “It was hard enough to live with a man. Imagine living with a girl?
No, it’s enough.”
Beverly’s vibrant routine keeps her sharp, connected, and healthy. She epitomizes the “superager” concept, demonstrating that autonomy for older adults should be respected. Her secret to longevity is simple yet effective: stay mentally, physically, and socially engaged.
“I’m not bored,” she asserts, “My mind is very active.” She dedicates at least two hours daily to devouring mystery novels and is an avid football fan, never to be disturbed on Sundays or Monday nights when her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers are playing.
Physically, Beverly starts each day with stretches and uses a pedal machine that transforms her chair into an exercise bike. Socially, her calendar is full.
Friends frequently visit, and one friend has maintained a 30-year tradition of celebrating her birthday annually. While she no longer drinks alcohol, she enjoys a “fancy” mocktail of tonic water with ice and lime, a satisfying alternative to her former vodka tonic.
Beverly maintains close contact with her children and extended family, who visit regularly. This winter, she plans a trip to North Carolina to stay with her daughter and will proudly attend her granddaughter’s wedding in February.
Despite lingering worries from her family, Beverly’s independence and happiness are undeniable. She is alone but not lonely, supported but self-sufficient, enjoying a life filled with mysteries, mocktails, and sacred football Sundays.