I'm Rachel McAlpine, I'm 84 and I'm learning how to be old from a centenarian. Whether you are almost old, already old, or never-gonna-be-old, meet my role model for positive ageing. The Sturdy Centenarian is Doris Carnevali, a retired professor of nursing, and she was born in 1923. I'll read three key chapters from my book based on her blog.

Usually when very old people are asked for tips on aging, they give some general advice, like "stay young at heart" or "marry a good wife." But this centenarian's advice goes further. Yes, she shares her wisdom, and she is indeed wise. But she also also offers very practical help for the challenges that crop up every day when you become very old.