Howard Tucker, the world’s longest-living doctor and star of TikTok gives us the secret to longevity with his 3 key recommendations

Dr Howard Tucker was named the oldest practicing male doctor by Guinness World Records four years ago. Now at 102, the Cleveland-based neurologist had to hang up his white coat when the hospital he was working at closed down in 2022.

But he still give seminars, teaches medicine and offers legal consultations, having passed the Ohio State Law Bar at age 67. He is also a TikTok star and the subject of documentary titled ‘What’s Next?’ produced by his grandson Austin Tucker.

He says that he got a good head start to living such a long life thanks to both his parents living well into old age, 84 and 96, but that it takes more than genes to reach such a ripe old age. “Heredity and family history of longevity is a healthy start. However, it must be supported by moderation of nutrition, alcohol, and happiness,” he told Guinness World Records.

Dr Howard Tucker’s 3 key recommendations for longevity

“Retirement, I think, is the enemy of longevity,” Tucker told Al Roker during an interview on NBC’s TODAY show. “You have to have some purpose in life—to get up in the morning know what you are about.”

Even though he had to stop practicing medicine, he told People that he’s been looking for a new position. However, despite “putting out feelers” he said that nobody wants him at his age.

He says that even if you choose to give up the 9-to-5 that you still seek out a hobby and try to keep learning new things. He says that the brain needs “daily stimulation” and something that gives you happiness.

Not only does Tucker’s work provide him with the happiness he says is neccessary to live a long life but also his family. He has been married to his wife for nearly 70 years, and they have four children and ten grandchildren.

Studies have shown that keeping the mind sharp and maintaining strong social relationships are key to living longer and healthier.

Moderation and exercise

As far as his diet goes, he shared on the podcast mindbodygreen that he begins the day with seasonal fruit and sometimes has cereal with low-fat milk. He skips lunch and typically has for dinner fish and vegetables, especially broccoli.

Tucker says that he drinks tea instead of coffee. He also shared that he rarely drinks and only occasionally eats meat. However, he doesn’t deny himself something sweet, enjoying either fruit or ice cream at the end of the day.

He also keeps himself physically active, something that he has made a priority since he was young. Nowadays he walks at least three miles a day.

He also says no smoking and no hatred have helped him live such a long life.

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