A 92-year-old grandmother has revealed the secret to ageing gracefully—and fad diets aren’t involved. Edna May Giordano attributes her youthful appearance to lifelong consistency with self-care and a simple but efficient exercise routine.
Since her mid-60s, she has especially favoured dumbbell workouts and cardio, supplemented by spending as much time outdoors and nurturing her vegetable garden and flower beds. Yoga and Pilates workouts are also a big part of her weekly routine, as Edna continues to prioritise her mobility and strength.
“I have no secrets – I exercise because of how it makes me feel afterward,” Edna, a retired hospital housekeeper from Canada, said in 2023. “There are days when I don’t feel like exercising, but I do it anyway. I know if I don’t use it, I will lose it.”
Edna’s daughter, Dalyce Radtke, 58, is a fitness instructor and believes that her mother’s youthful appearance partly stems from independence and self-confidence. “My mum chooses outfits that make her feel good, not what society typically assumes ‘grandmas’ should wear,” she said previously.
“She’s not afraid to wear trendy clothing, even at her age.” Dalyce has been passionate about fitness since purchasing her first gym membership over three decades ago.
Both she and Edna now hope to show people that ‘age is a mindset’ and optimism towards ageing is what will keep you young. “My mum really thinks people are making a big deal over nothing regarding her age and fitness abilities,” Daylce said.
“She loves life and values her independence. She is very astounded as to why others don’t choose to do all they can to help them live their best life.”
“How we think about getting older has played a big part in keeping us both feeling young. It is inevitable that we will age, the number of years you’ve been alive does not have to limit what you can do or achieve.
“If you create consistent habits like common sense food choices, consistent movement and daily gratitude, your age will define nothing more than the linear time of your journey.”