Carmen Machuca Celebrates 101st Birthday at Arcare Maidstone

Arcare Maidstone resident, Carmen Machuca recently celebrated her milestone 101st birthday surrounded by friends, family, fellow residents, and her dedicated support team at Arcare.

Complete with a strawberry cake, balloons, flowers, presents and live entertainment from performer Sam Solo, the Arcare Maidstone community came together celebrate this momentous occasion with centenarian Carmen.

Carmen enjoyed a dance with Lifestyle Coordinators, Barbara Smith and Mary Tucceri-Cimini, with her smile beaming from ear to ear.

When asked about her secret to living a long life, Carmen says she has three tips, “I have always tried to avoid stress where possible. Secondly, I drink or smoke, and lastly, and I also enjoy eating healthy, fresh produce straight from the garden.”

Born 20 July 1921 in the Philippines, Carmen was the middle child of six. In 1967, Carmen moved to Melbourne with her family including her husband and daughter, Victoria, saying “We moved to have a better life, and at first it was a big adjustment.” Carmen later went on to work in an office typing and answering the phone.

A mother to Victoria, a grandmother to two and a great-grandmother to three, Carmen is living a very fulfilling life. “I have three wonderful great-grandsons; they are the most beautiful boys in the world. My family and friends are very important to me.” Carmen said.

Click here to find out more about Arcare