By Julie E 
Photo Credit ( Pixels )
As Joe Biden assumed the presidency of the United States at the age of 78, consider the incredible tales of those who started their careers as comedians at the age of 89 or authors at the age of 94. Here, we look at the lives of six incredible seniors who overcome age stereotypes.
Author Margaret Ford, 94 I never thought I would be the oldest debut novelist in Britain at ninety-three. Simply put, my life narrative is what it is. 630 letters that my husband Jim and I had exchanged over our 67-year marriage were found in a trunk that I discovered after he passed away seven years ago. Younger generations would not comprehend the depth of communication prior to the digital age, I realized as I read through them. Motivated, I looked for a ghostwriter and started writing my life narrative. I had originally planned to write only about our life together, but it quickly became apparent that my experiences were just as interesting. I found that writing was liberating and that it gave me a newfound sense of purpose. Even though I don’t have any kids to tell my stories to, I still wanted to leave a legacy—a proof of a life well spent. I can’t wait to start working on my next book as I get closer to 95.
Graduate Giuseppe Paternò, 97 I constantly stress the same thing when I provide advice: never give up on your dreams, no matter how old you are. As the oldest child in a family of seven, I grew up in Palermo. I left school at the age of 14 to help support my family. Still, I was passionate about learning. I returned to philosophy after I retired at the age of 28, and I eventually made the decision to go back to school. I had my reservations when I first enrolled at the University of Palermo at the age of 93, but I persisted. I graduated at the top of my class three years later, right before my 97th birthday. I was completely transformed by that experience, and it inspired me to keep studying new things. I can’t wait to begin my master’s program in philosophy.
90-year-old Sister Madonna Buder Triathlete Growing up, I never thought about running. However, my interest in running began in the late 1970s during a talk at a Christian conference. In the early 1980s, I ran my first marathon shortly after taking my first steps on a beach. I became known as the “Iron Nun” after a friend urged me to do an Ironman at the age of 55. I went on to compete in 400 triathlons. Even though I might not be traveling as far now, I’m not going to slow down. I can’t wait to resume my post-mass workouts and show that getting older doesn’t mean losing mobility or energy.
Lisel Heise, 101, Social Worker My entire life, I have dedicated myself to teaching and political activism. Soon after turning 100, I was elected to the Kirchheimbolanden city council, following in my father’s footsteps. My longstanding passion for my neighborhood and my background as a teacher aided in building a rapport with voters. My goal is to promote mental and emotional well-being through art, culture, and community wellness in these trying times. Even though I believe my term in government is coming to an end, I’m committed to seeing my town prosper.
Lawyer Emmanuel Gasa, 76 I chose to seek a legal degree at the age of 60 after having a varied profession and raising a family. Although it was difficult for me to blend in with my younger classmates, I welcomed the chance to learn. It took me 11 years to complete my voyage, and I graduated at the age of 71 with my granddaughter. I’m motivated to start my own practice and show that age is nothing more than a number, even if it can be difficult to find work as an older attorney.
Comedian Natalie Levant, 89 After my spouse passed away in 2009, I had a hard time adjusting to being a widow. I tried stand-up comedy in 2012 after striking up a discussion by coincidence while volunteering at a nearby resource center. The audience’s support was transformational for me. I now utilize my platform to humorously and self-deprecatingly dispel age prejudices and inspire others to accept their age with no regrets. My catchphrase? Never allow someone dictate to you how to behave for your age.