MT Centenarians honored at Conference on Aging
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News from the Department of Public Health and Human Services
BILLINGS – On Oct. 1, Montana centenarians were honored in Billings at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center during a special luncheon.
“Each year, it’s an honor to celebrate our Montana centenarians for the inspiration and contributions they provide to our state and communities,” Governor Greg Gianforte said. “It’s a privilege to share their stories and learn from their unique perspectives on life.”
The luncheon was part of the 55th annual Governor’s Conference on Aging.
The Department of Public Health and Human Services recently asked each of the centenarians honored this year to share their secret to longevity and provide insight into their remarkable lives. Everyone who submitted their information this year will receive a recognition proclamation from Governor Gianforte.
The centenarians who responded to DPHHS include those who are or will turn age 100 by the end of 2024. The list includes 37 centenarians:
1-108-year-old; 1- 107-year-old; 1- 105-year-old; 1- 104-year-old; 1- 103-year-old; 8- 102-year-olds; 2- 101-year-old; 22-100-year-olds.
The centenarians honored this year live in the following Montana communities: Glendive; Miles City; Charlo; Billings; Whitefish; Columbia Falls; Chinook; Helena; St. Ignatius; Great Falls; Plains; Hamilton; Florence; Laurel; Deer Lodge; Kalispell; Harlowton; Conrad; Superior; Havre; Missoula; Columbus; and Ronan.
A total of 11 centenarians were represented at the luncheon.
Here are a couple of the centenarian responses:
Laura Gee, age 102, Plains. Gee says her greatest joy in life was becoming a mother and grandmother. Laura has a passion for reading and has spent much of her time studying natural remedies and herbs. She said her secret to longevity is simple: coffee, candy, and a little dancing.
Nyla Prosser, age 101, Superior. Prosser was raised on a small farm during the Great Depression. Along with her siblings, she shared the responsibility of farm labor, including haying and milking cows. She also developed a love for music, began singing at age three, and learned to play the piano by ear.
The annual Governor’s Conference on Aging was created in 1968 to offer information and education to our older citizens, their families, and their caregivers. It also serves as an opportunity for professionals who serve these Montanans to connect and collaborate with their colleagues. Attendees include the elderly, persons with disabilities, caregivers, and service providers. Over 200 people participated in the conference this year.
Topics covered during the 2024 conference included aging with assistive technology, fighting back against Parkinson’s disease, navigating guardianship, simplifying legal and financial issues, and protecting against scams.
