Sisterhood, the secret to a long life? Sardinian village could hold clues to women’s longevity

A striking longevity finding

The study was published in Frontiers in Aging last week. Giovanni Mario Pes, who led the research and helped create the blue zone concept, said Bolotana was the first area identified where exceptional longevity was found among women rather than predominantly men.

Women choosing their own paths

Sisters Giovanna Marras, 101, and Mariangela, 99, remain lively and independent. They cook for themselves, eat a varied diet that includes meat, cheese and wine, and Mariangela walks to do the shopping. Both sisters described resisting expectations around marriage. Giovanna said she rejected a suitor chosen by her parents, while Mariangela said, “I walk my own path, I don’t need support.”

Archives reveal a shift

Tore Pedde, president of the cultural association Orminas, searched demographic records to identify Bolotana as a possible longevity hotspot. He also traced centenarians born in the village who had moved abroad.

Pedde said elderly residents were once more often men. From the early 20th century, women began to outnumber men among older people, and female centenarians later became far more numerous than male ones.

Sisterhood and community support

Pes said a strong sense of sisterhood among women in Bolotana stood out and was something he wanted to investigate scientifically. The study seeks to explain why longevity in the village affects women in particular.

Mayor Francesco Manconi sees social connection as important. He described affection from relatives, neighbours and friends, and said the village places importance on helping older residents remain in their own homes.