As he approaches his 100th birthday, Dick Van Dyke is not just reflecting on a legendary career but also sharing the wisdom that has carried him through a century of living. The beloved star of “Mary Poppins” and “The Dick Van Dyke Show” is still full of the energy and charm that made him famous, and he credits two key elements for his youthful spirit: a vibrant marriage and a commitment to staying active. His formula is a powerful reminder that a long life is best measured by the joy and connection we cultivate along the way.
At the heart of Van Dyke’s vitality is his wife, Arlene Silver. The couple met when he was 80 and she was working as a makeup artist at an awards show. Smitten, Van Dyke broke his own rule and reached out to her, a move that led to a deep and life-changing connection. They married in 2012, and he now describes her as his soulmate and the primary reason he has not withdrawn into a reclusive and grumpy old age. Her presence in his life is the cornerstone of his happiness and engagement with the world.
Van Dyke speaks about his wife with a sense of wonder and gratitude. He openly shares that Arlene, who is decades his junior, has a remarkable effect on him, making him feel decades younger than his actual age. She is not just a romantic partner but an active manager of their shared life, juggling schedules and commitments with two phones to keep their social calendar full. He believes that her efforts to keep him performing and socializing are essential nourishment for his spirit, preventing him from becoming what he jokingly calls “origami guy.”
Beyond the power of love, Van Dyke is a firm believer in the importance of physical activity. He maintains a disciplined routine of visiting the gym three days a week, a habit that has undoubtedly contributed to his remarkable health and mobility. This commitment to movement is a practical application of his lifelong career as a dancer and performer, proving that staying active is not just for the young. It is a crucial ingredient in his recipe for maintaining strength and vitality through the decades.
Dick Van Dyke’s outlook offers a beautiful blueprint for aging gracefully. His story demonstrates that a long and fulfilling life is built on more than just good genes. It is fueled by a loving partnership that provides joy and purpose, and it is sustained by a dedication to physical well-being. As he enters his 100th year, he stands as a testament to the idea that with the right attitude, the right partner, and a little regular exercise, life can remain a vibrant and joyful adventure at any age.
