This 102-year-old Keralite has some interesting health tips for senior citizens

“I am 102 not out. Former chief minister VS Achuthanandan and I are just 78 days apart,” says K Sukumaran with the high–spirited energy of a youngster. This former teacher leads an active life with physical activities playing an important role in his daily routine. Playing musical instruments is his favourite hobby that keeps his mind young and energetic. Sukumaran, who hails from Eranjali in Thalassery, finished first in the 600 metres walking at the recent Masters’ Meet while his fellow competitors looked tired at the halfway mark.

Driving @ 98
Sukumaran drove his car seamlessly through the busy Thalassery town until he turned 98. However, he retired from driving after that, as his children became concerned about his safety. Although he is 102 years old, Sukumaran doesn’t suffer from any lifestyle diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol. “If you follow a proper routine, then age will stay away from your life,” says Sukumaran with a smile.

Health from sports
Sukumaran was born on January 6, 1924. He became interested in athletics while studying for the Intermediate at Government Brennen College. He won a gold medal for the 200 metres and 400 metres races, consecutively for three years, when he was studying for a BSc Maths at the Maharajas’ College in Ernakulam. After completing teacher training in Chennai, Sukumaran began working as a teacher at the Thalassery BEM School. He worked here for 16 years before moving to South Africa. He didn’t give up his love of sports, even while in South Africa, where he participated in all the major events. He returned to Kerala at age 77. Sukumaran became a sports hero in his hometown by regularly participating and winning medals at the Masters’ Meet. Running and walking are his favourite activities. Sukumaran won a gold medal in the 600 metres walking at the recently held Masters’ Meet in Kasargod.

Traveller
Sukumaran is an avid traveller who enjoys exploring unique places and their cultures. He is the head of a large family of nine children, 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. His third child, Renuka, passed away, and the rest are settled in various parts of the world. Sukumaran used to travel to the US, England, South Africa, Canada and Singapore, where his children are settled, until a few years ago. Now, he lives in Thalassery with his wife, Kausalya. Two maids have been appointed to help and support the elderly couple. Meanwhile, each child and their family visit Sukumaran and Kausalya every month.

Brain exercise
Sukumaran, a Mathematics teacher, keeps his mind active and rejuvenated by solving mathematical puzzles. He is often keen to introduce these interesting puzzles to his guests and friends as well. He would correctly say the day if you tell him your birthdate. Sukumaran considers his strong computer skills and social media expertise his biggest advantage. “I have been fortunate to see and live with six generations. Isn’t that delightful?” asks Sukumaran with a smile.

This is how Sukumaran’s daily routine looks like
Sukumaran wakes up at 6 am and enjoys a hearty breakfast of boiled eggs, a glass of milk, boiled plantain, and one piece of dosa, appam, or puttu by 7 am. His lunch is simple: a boiled egg, yoghurt, and a small portion of rice or a dosa. He prefers having half a cup of coffee in the evening. Dinner is served by 7 pm. On most nights, Sukumaran has a dosa with a glass of milk for dinner. He hits the bed at 9 pm. Sukumaran exercises every day for at least half an hour. Now, he focuses mostly on exercises using dumbbells, although he enjoys walking too.