Ipswich care home centenarian shares secret to a long life

A 100-year-old resident at an Ipswich care home has revealed her secret to living a long and happy life – being active and accepting things as they come. 

Muriel Dorothy Girling, who lives at Care UK’s Prince George House on Mansbrook Boulevard, shared her wisdom as she celebrated her milestone birthday. 

Muriel was born in Ipswich on 10^th May 1925 and grew up with her younger sister Eileen. She attended Clifford Road Primary School.

Her first job saw her work as a shorthand typist, which led to a career she hugely enjoyed and continued with until she retired. She also obtained a position as the PA to the chairman at Ransomes, Sims and Jefferies – a major agricultural machinery maker that produced a variety of engineering products in places including Ipswich.

Muriel used to own two cocker spaniel puppies, whom she trained and enjoyed taking to competitions. Over the years, she has led an incredibly active life, with a love for sports like tennis, badminton and hockey. This is something she believes has been a key component for her experiencing a long and happy life.

“One of my favourite memories is our weekly races against the Brownies Girl Guides,” she said.

“I think that’s the secret to living such a fulfilled life: being active, sporty, not being miserable and being happy. Just accepting things as they come along.”

Muriel’s milestone birthday was celebrated with a special party at Prince George House surrounded by family members and friends, with a delicious birthday cake baked by the home’s Head Chef.

Muriel added: “My 100^th was one of the best parties I have ever had with all my friends and family there.”

Annette Aspinall, Day Centre Manager at Prince George House, said: “We had a wonderful time celebrating Muriel’s 100^th birthday. She is a much-loved resident here and we were so pleased to spend time with her on her special day!

“Here at Prince George House, we are dedicated to helping residents live active and fulfilling lives, and we love to celebrate incredible milestones – Muriel’s 100^th birthday is no exception. It was great to hear what turning 100 means to Muriel, and we really enjoyed raising a glass with her!”

Prince George House is a modern, purpose-built care home providing full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has a choice of lounges and dining rooms, along with facilities such as an activities room, cinema and hair and beauty salon.