Life lessons from Dick Van Dyke at 100

There are few people in show business who can claim to have danced with penguins, mastered slapstick on both sides of the Atlantic, and made generations smile with their infectious optimism and one infamous cockney accent. Dick Van Dyke, turning 100 years old earlier this month, stands as living proof that energy, joy, and a good old tune can keep you young at heart.

So - genetics and luck aside - what can we learn from this legendary entertainer’s century-long journey?

1. ‘Keeeeep dancing!’

Whether twirling across London rooftops as Bert or grooving in his living room as himself, Dick Van Dyke has always believed in the power of movement. The science backs him up: regular dancing can improve balance, boosts brain health, and reduces the risk of dementia. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that seniors who danced regularly had a 76% reduced risk of dementia compared to those who didn't.

2. Laughter is the best – and the cheapest – medicine

Few could watch Dick fumble and tumble without chuckling. But laughter isn’t just good for the soul; it’s good for your arteries and immune system too. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, lowers stress hormones, and increases infection-fighting antibodies. In other words, a good giggle – a Van Dyke specialty – can quite literally add years to your life. So, go on, find the funny; Doctor Dick prescribes it. And learn to laugh at yourself too, as he does.

3. Stay curious

From Broadway shows to “Diagnosis: Murder” Dick never shied away from trying something new. Studies show that learning new skills, especially later in life, helps keep the brain sharp. Whether it’s picking up a ukulele or attempting your first TikTok dance routine, staying curious keeps the mind as sprightly as the 100-year-old hoofer.

4. Surround yourself with friends (and penguins)

Strong social connections are one of the greatest predictors of longevity. Dick Van Dyke’s enduring friendships and collaborations are testament to the power of community. Research from Harvard’s 80-year Study of Adult Development found that relationships — above fame, fortune, and even vitamin supplements — are the key to staying healthy and happy as you age. If you can find friends as cheerful as cartoon penguins, all the better!

5. Embrace the silly as well as the sincere

Perhaps Dick’s greatest lesson is to approach life with a blend of silliness and sincerity. Don’t be afraid to look foolish at times. The science is clear: those who maintain a positive attitude and a sense of humour tend to live longer, healthier lives. In fact, a study in Norway found that people with a great sense of humour had a 31% higher chance of surviving serious illnesses.

Dick Van Dyke at 100 is not just a marvel of entertainment, but a beacon for living well. So, tip your hat, flash a crooked smile, don a ‘terrible cockney accent’ if you must and remember: keep moving, keep laughing, stay curious, nurture your friendships, and never stop embracing life’s joy – no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake.

After all, as Dick has shown us with every step, a spoonful of happiness really does help the years go down.

References:

Verghese, J., et al. (2003). "Leisure Activities and the Risk of Dementia in the Elderly." New England Journal of Medicine, 348(25), 2508-2516.

Bennett, M. P., et al. (2003). "The effect of mirthful laughter on stress and natural killer cell activity." Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 9(2), 38-45.

Vemuri, P., et al. (2014). "Role of education and intellectual activity in cognitive aging." Current Alzheimer Research, 11(8), 828-835.

Waldinger, R. J., & Schulz, M. S. (2023). "The Harvard Study of Adult Development: Lessons from the longest study on happiness." Harvard Gazette.

Svebak, S., et al. (2010). "Sense of humour and survival among a county cohort of patients with end-stage renal failure: A two-decade prospective study." International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine, 40(1), 71-91.