New York's Oldest celebrated in Queens, offer tips for long life

Worried that a cigarette habit could shorten his life, Seth Friedman decided to stop smoking.

That was in 1946. He's now 102 years old.

But Friedman, one of several centenarians feted at a party sponsored by Selfhelp Community Services for its clients on Thursday afternoon in Flushing, said he has no special secret to his longevity.

 

Several family members, including his mother and brother, lived well into their 90s.

"Seems to have been a family trait," Friedman said with a laugh.

The youngest guests of honor were 99 years old and the oldest 109. They were celebrated with music and food after City Councilmembers Peter Koo and Margaret Chin presented them with certificates.

Selfhelp staffers produced a video featuring words of wisdom from the honorees along with sights and sounds of old New York City.

"Not smoking — never," 101-year-old Zusya Gusin advises, but a little drinking is ok.

John Neumeyer, 100, who retired less than 10 years ago, reflected on the different lifestyle between Europe and the U.S.

 

"Over there they like to have a little pleasure and less work," he says in the video. "Over here, they do more work and less pleasure I would say."

The non-profit started in 1936 to help people fleeing Nazi Germany. It now provides meals, programs and other services for 20,000 seniors living across the five boroughs. It also owns and operates several assisted living complexes.

Stuart Kaplan, chief executive officer of Selfhelp, said the organization serves 77 people who are turning 100 or older this year.

"Helping people live with independence and dignity is core to everything Selfhelp does," he said.

 

Virginia Devejian, who just turned 102, still works as a volunteer at one of Selfhelp's senior centers in Queens.

"I think that you have to work and you have to think of good things instead of bad," she said, reflecting on her ability to stay active. "I try to help everybody I can. They say what you do comes back to you."