Copyright The New York Times
Most people can’t imagine living to 100. For those who do, work has usually been left behind long ago. We spoke with five centenarians who have never retired. Their jobs have become a part of their identities. And the secret to a life fulfilled. Japan has about 100,000 people who have lived for a century or more — the most in the world, and more per capita than in any other country. The frailty that comes with age is creating challenges for Japan, where a record-low birthrate means ever more retirees and fewer working-age people to support them. But for some people, reaching 100 is just another milestone in a full life. We met five remarkable centenarians who credited their longevity to eating well, Japan’s affordable health care, exercise and family support. But for these five, there is also something else: their work. The Bicycle Repairman As a 12-year-old, Seiichi Ishii was walking home from school one day when he came across a “help wanted” sign in the window of a bicycle repair shop in the Shitamachi district of Tokyo. He had always admired the long navy jumpsuits that bike repairmen wore, and he wanted to step into one himself. More than 90 years after that start, Mr. Ishii is still fixing bikes at his own shop. Though the legs of the jumpsuit are too long for his shrinking body, he goes to bed every night excited about the customers who might show up the next day. “If I die here, in my workshop, I will be happy,” he said. “I am a working man, and that doesn’t change with age!” Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times. Thank you for your patience while we verify access. Already a subscriber? Log in. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
