Care Home Resident, 104, Reveals Her “Tonic” For Long Life

Bupa Care Services Press releases

Ina Carruthers 104 Birthday Bupa Client Edinburgh PRA care home resident from Glasgow has revealed her top tips for maintaining a long and healthy life – one that has seen her reach her 104th birthday.

Ina Carruthers, who celebrated her birthday at Bupa’s Ailsa Craig Care Home, says she attributes her good health to a diet consisting of wheat-bran cereal, toast, biscuits – and most surprisingly, the more than occasional glass of gin with orange juice.

Born in 1910 in Glasgow, the ground-breaking great-grandmother of five worked in a factory during World War Two as a machinist and later as an engineer – before raising three children.

Ina married husband William, at the London Road Church in Bridgeton with the reception held at a nearby tea room.

The service was carried out by Reverend Jackson who also christened Ina’s three children Sarah who sadly passed away at age 8 from appendicitis; Ian who is 70; and Maureen, 65.

Ina explained how her wartime job also saw her challenge the male-female wage divide at the time, receiving a pay which was almost three times as much as the average worker.

She said: “I got very lucky with the job I had during the war – I started off as a machinist then worked my way up to become an engineer.

Most workers would be paid £3 per week but my salary was almost £9, which meant I could treat myself more often.

One time I even splashed out and bought a brand new fur coat.”

Ina also highlights her secrets for longevity, saying: “It definitely takes hard-work to a live a long life and you most certainly have to put the effort in.

I certainly worked hard during the war – and while I raised my children.

I also think it’s important to treat yourself with the things that you enjoy – and in my case, gin with orange juice is one of my favourite indulgences.

I used to go dancing every Monday at a local club in Cessnock – and I would be sure to order it from the bar.”

Ina shared her milestone birthday on St Andrew’s Day – where the care home team held a double celebration.

Sheila Margey, Manager at Ailsa Craig Care Home, said: “Everyone was delighted to help Ina celebrate the big day.

She added: “Ina always has fantastic stories to tell and is such a pleasure to be around, she’s popular with everyone who lives and works here.

Residents and staff had a fantastic time helping Ina to celebrate with drinks, refreshments and party food – alongside traditional Scottish cuisine for St. Andrew’s day.

Turning 104 is such an incredible accomplishment and we’re all so proud of Ina.”

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