Ohio Woman Celebrates 105th Birthday, Shares Longevity Secrets

Helen Sophis, a resident of Ohio and one of the oldest women in the United States, recently celebrated her 105th birthday on October 10. Sophis shared her keys to a long and vibrant life, emphasizing a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.

Born in 1921, Sophis attributes her longevity to clean living, including a Mediterranean diet and staying physically active. She grew up eating home-cooked Greek meals prepared by her mother, with dishes like moussaka and pastitsio made from scratch. Her family also owned a Coney Island restaurant, where she worked from a young age.

Sophis was active throughout her youth, participating in basketball and volleyball at West High School and later playing basketball, volleyball, and tennis at the University of Akron. She left college after her sister's death but continued to maintain physical activity. During World War II, she held a "man's job" at a rubber plant, managing inventories, and after the war, she worked in an office role, operating a comptometer, a mechanical calculator. She also excelled as a golfer, winning several tournaments.

After retiring from the factory, Sophis worked at a mall to supplement her income. Friends at her senior living center describe her as a "fiesta," a "determined spitfire," and a "wealth of knowledge," noting her giving nature. Sophis, who never married but had a long-term boyfriend, remains socially engaged, playing bingo and crafting with friends.

She expressed that she feels better now than she did as a teenager. Sophis is among the oldest women in America, with Naomi Whitehead of Pennsylvania, aged 116, holding the record as the oldest person living in North America. Whitehead also credits longevity to good genes and enjoying hobbies like baking and cooking.