The Cardero family's matriarch recently celebrated her 101st birthday, becoming the star of a touching family video shared on Facebook by her great-granddaughter, Anay Delgado Cardero. In the video, she candidly and humorously shares the secrets behind her long life.
In the brief video lasting just over a minute, Melba Cardero Saldívar answers a series of questions about her longevity, daily routine, and advice for younger generations. Her spontaneous responses have moved those who have watched her.
When asked about her secret to reaching 101 years, she leaves no room for doubt: "Having a lot of faith in God. He is the one who gives life, health, and everything."
The Importance of Diet and Activity
Regarding her diet, Melba is equally straightforward: "Meat, sweets," she declares without hesitation. Her statement stands in contrast to the moderation typically advised by other centenarians and adds a humorous touch to her story.
Far from leading a passive life, the Cardero matriarch remains active with household chores. "I still wash dishes, sweep, and do my laundry," she says, adding that her greatest joys are "cooking and eating."
Family and Spiritual Values
What she treasures most about her family life is "seeing everyone together with joy and health," referring to her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren surrounding her.
Her advice to young people blends values and spirituality: "Be good, be honest, think of God first, as He gives all health and luck."
When asked if there's any unfulfilled dream, she answers calmly: "Well, I've been fortunate and have achieved almost everything."
Her final message to her family and viewers encapsulates a simple yet profound life philosophy: "Be good men and women. And love your family as they love me."
A Legacy of Longevity
The video was uploaded in celebration of the centenarian's birthday, with the family congratulating her online as "the Cardero matriarch."
An earlier video from the same family, posted in March, garnered over 14,000 views and 731 reactions on Facebook, demonstrating the affection this figure inspires among her online followers.
This centenarian's story is not unique in Cuba. Last year, a 109-year-old woman in Cárdenas was reported to be in excellent health, and another matriarch in Santiago de Cuba reached 103 years with 15 children, 53 grandchildren, and 57 great-grandchildren. According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, the island had around 2,500 people over the age of 100, with a life expectancy surpassing 78 years.
Similar celebrations have been held for other Cuban grandmothers, such as a centenarian who celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family, or a woman in Pinar del Río who reached a century of life without ever having smoked.
Faith, constant work, family bonds, and —in this case— a diet not shying away from the pleasures of meat and sweets, paint the portrait of a woman who has lived a full century with joy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Longevity in Cuba
What is the average life expectancy in Cuba?
Cuba's average life expectancy is over 78 years, according to the 2022 Population and Housing Census.
How many centenarians are there in Cuba?
As of the 2022 census, there are approximately 2,500 people over the age of 100 in Cuba.
What are common factors contributing to longevity in Cuba?
Factors often cited include faith, family support, an active lifestyle, and a balanced diet, sometimes including indulgences like sweets and meat.