Profile: Dick Van Dyke

Dick Van Dyke isn’t a longevity influencer per se, but his vitality and sharpness as he approaches a century of life are certainly worth examining to see what he’s done right to maintain such impressive health and vigor. While interviews provide high-level glimpses into his routine, I’ve also lucky to know someone who met him a few years back and made several observations on how he lives.

• Sleep, Mind, & Social: Van Dyke remains highly socially engaged, a lifelong learner, and is renown for his cheerful demeanor and positive outlook. His sense of humor is legendary, and he credits his religious faith with helping him overcome hardships, including alcoholism.
• Exercise: A dedicated regular at the gym, Van Dyke works out three times a week with a full-body routine. He also practices yoga and continues to dance and sing regularly.
• Diet: Van Dyke eats what he enjoys and has always been naturally lean.
• Vices: He overcame alcoholism in the 1970s and quit smoking. These days, his indulgence is having ice cream every night.
• Metrics: unknown
• Cosmetic: unknown (but seems like none)
• Supplements: Takes sleeping pills
• Experimental Treatments: unknown

He’s also written a book called Keep Moving, where he cites the important role physical activity has played in maintaining his health well into old age. In the book, he advocates for regular exercise—like dancing and swimming—as essential for keeping both mind and body sharp. He emphasizes that staying active not only combats depression but also enhances mood and supports cognitive health.

https://www.amazon.com/Keep-Moving-Truths-Living-Longer/dp/1602863113

My Take:
I’d place Van Dyke in the “approachable & lucky” categories, benefiting from a mix of good genetics, optimism, and a lifelong habit of staying physically and socially active. While he doesn’t follow a structured longevity routine, his approach has clearly worked for him. That said, simply being sunny and active isn’t going to carry most of us to our hundredth birthday – especially not in as great shape as Van Dyke is. Genetics likely play a significant role in his extraordinary health span. So, approachable because anyone can easily do it, but lucky because it seems unlikely most people will reap the same benefits Van Dyke did.

Takeaways for You:
Van Dyke’s life offers some practical lessons for anyone looking to age well:

• Keep moving—exercise consistently and stay active.
• Maintain a positive, optimistic mental attitude.
• Embrace lifelong learning to keep your mind sharp.
• Foster a strong circle of friends and family for social and emotional support.