János Cser, 72, and Eta Miklóssy, 74, Hungary

János Cser is aged 72 and a retired controller. He lives with his wife in a private home in Százhalombatta, Hungary. Eta Miklóssy, aged 74, is a former kindergarten teacher and lives with her husband in Budapest. Both János and Eta are members of a walking club for older persons in Budapest.

Daily life

János and Eta both say they feel more free than ever before in life. They enjoy spending time on leisure activities: Eta does beautiful needlework and embroidery¸ and János plays the piano and works in his garden. They both lead active lives that include daily exercises. Eta and her husband do nordic walking, while János and his wife usually hike. János is a leader of a pensioners club in his city of Százhalombatta, where he organizes cultural and sport programmes.

Looking back, what advice would you give to younger people?

Eta emphasizes the need for openness, and a willingness to try new things. János' advice: "Do what you like to do!"

Falls prevention

Eta fell once in recent years. It turned out that she had diabetes, so she now controls her blood sugar level and is no longer afraid of falling. 

Physical activity

János and Eta participate in weekly programmes at their walking club. Physical activity is a good way to manage weight and maintain good health, while also providing an opportunity to be in good company, they say.

Disease prevention

Prevention is very important says Eta. They both follow a healthy nutrition plan that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as extra vitamins. They receive annual influenza vaccinations, and usually visit their doctors to get health advice.

Informal and formal care

They feel that health care in Hungary is too rigid and medicines are too expensive for their limited pensions.