A Candid View on Reaching 100
Prince Philip was known for his forthrightness, and he applied this same candor to the topic of his own aging. In a 2000 interview with royal biographer Gyles Brandreth, the then 79-year-old Duke of Edinburgh shared a surprisingly blunt perspective on living to 100. Contrasting his own feelings with the public celebrations for his mother-in-law, the Queen Mother's centenary, Philip made it clear he had a different view for himself.
According to Brandreth's account in Philip: The Final Portrait, the Prince stated he certainly did not want to reach the age of 100. He described the prospect as "ghastly," adding that he had no desire to "cling on to life unnecessarily". He also commented on his physical condition at the time, noting he was "already falling to pieces" with "bits keep dropping off". This reflected a pragmatic acceptance of the realities of aging.
The Context of His Remarks
These comments were made when Philip was approaching his 80th birthday, a time when reflections on longevity and mortality are natural. His observation of the extensive public attention surrounding the Queen Mother's 100th birthday likely solidified his aversion to such a personal milestone being a cause for public fuss. This sentiment was echoed years later by his son, Prince Edward, who indicated that his father was not looking forward to the centenary and the associated attention. This suggests Philip's remarks were a genuine expression of his personal feelings, rather than a fleeting comment.
Prioritizing Purpose Over Longevity
Prince Philip's approach to life emphasized purpose and active engagement, which may explain his lack of desire to simply prolong life. He remained actively involved in his duties and interests well into old age, retiring from public engagements at 96 after completing over 22,000 solo events. His commitment to numerous organizations and his founding of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award demonstrated a dedication to service and making a contribution, which likely provided him with a strong sense of purpose.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, a program fostering youth development and achievement, remains a significant part of his legacy, impacting millions globally. This focus on meaningful activity rather than just the passage of time highlights his philosophy on how to live a good life, regardless of its length.
A Disciplined Lifestyle
Philip's relatively long and active life was also a result of his disciplined lifestyle. He was known for making health-conscious choices, such as giving up smoking in 1947. He reportedly followed a low-carbohydrate diet and incorporated regular exercise into his routine, including the Royal Canadian Air Force's 5BX plan. He was also a keen sportsman, participating in polo and later carriage driving. His commitment to staying physically and mentally engaged aligns with research on factors contributing to healthy aging.
Facing the Realities of Age
While Philip enjoyed good health for much of his life, his later years included various health challenges that likely influenced his perspective on extreme longevity. He experienced several hospitalizations for issues such as a blocked coronary artery, infections, a hip replacement, and a heart procedure shortly before his death. These personal experiences, coupled with his observation of age-related physical decline, likely reinforced his view that simply living to 100 held little appeal if it meant a significant reduction in quality of life. His outlook seemed to be one of pragmatic acceptance of the natural course of life and aging.
Comparing Royal Perspectives on Long Life
| Aspect | Prince Philip | Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother | Queen Elizabeth II |
|---|---|---|---|
| View on Centenary | Found the idea "ghastly" and did not wish to reach 100. | Her centenary was a widely celebrated national event. | Celebrated with traditional messages and recognition for other centenarians. |
| Approach to Aging | Emphasized living a life of purpose and utility. | Maintained a cheerful disposition and embraced old age. | Characterized by a strong sense of duty and continued public service. |
| Key Lifestyle Factors | Active in sports, dietary discipline, stopped smoking early. | Enjoyed social life, known for enjoying a drink. | Devoted to duty, enjoyed equestrian pursuits and dogs. |
| Lifespan | Died at age 99, just before 100. | Lived to 101. | Lived to 96. |
A Peaceful End at Windsor
In his final year, the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic led to Prince Philip spending more consistent time with Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle. Having previously spent more time at Wood Farm, the lockdown brought the royal couple together in a more constant domestic setting. This period was described by sources as a peaceful and happy time, with the Queen and Prince Philip enjoying simple activities like daily walks and meals together. This quieter, more private final chapter may have been more in line with Philip's personal preferences than a large public celebration for his 100th birthday.
Conclusion
Prince Philip's perspective on living to 100 offers a counterpoint to the common aspiration of extreme longevity. His candid remarks revealed a preference for a life lived with purpose and quality rather than simply reaching a milestone age. His dedication to service, disciplined lifestyle, and pragmatic view of aging shaped his outlook. While he did not achieve centenarian status, his nearly 100 years were marked by significant contributions and an unwavering commitment to his role. His life story provides valuable insights into aging with dignity and focusing on meaningful engagement. Further information on his impact can be found by exploring The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
His death was officially attributed to "old age," indicating a natural end rather than a specific illness.
