Mildred Kirschenbaum, a vibrant 99-year-old from Boca Raton, Florida, is captivating audiences on TikTok and Instagram with her spirited advice on living a long and fulfilling life. This tech-savvy near-centenarian still drives, manages her finances online, texts family and friends, and never misses happy hour.

Her message is simple yet powerful: embrace life's joys. "You only live once," Kirschenbaum emphasizes. "Don't let your later years be filled with complaints. Find something that brings you pleasure and pursue it actively." For Kirschenbaum, a positive attitude is paramount. In a viral video, she points out how negativity can impact longevity, urging her peers to focus on the good in their lives.

She encourages finding joy in simple things, like an extra dessert or a weekly call with family. Kirschenbaum's wisdom, she believes, isn't solely a product of age, but rather a lifelong practice of positive thinking.

Kirschenbaum lives independently and credits her strong family connections for her happiness. Her daughter, Gayle, a writer and Emmy-winning filmmaker, has been instrumental in sharing her mother's insights online. What started as a birthday video on a cruise evolved into a social media presence dedicated to Mildred's wisdom and their unique mother-daughter journey.

Their relationship, however, hasn't always been smooth. Gayle describes past tensions and her mother's critical nature, which even inspired Gayle's short film "My Nose." Through a process of forgiveness, documented in the film "Look at Us Now, Mother," they've built a stronger bond. Gayle's Ted Talk further explores this journey, revealing how understanding her mother's own experiences led to empathy and healing.

Kirschenbaum advocates for embracing technology, regardless of age. She uses various devices to connect, learn, and manage her life, proving that tech proficiency can empower individuals at any stage. From online banking to playing games, she encourages others to adapt to the digital world.

In addition to technology, Kirschenbaum emphasizes the importance of social interaction. She enjoys card games, but her favorite activity is happy hour. Despite being the oldest attendee, she embraces the opportunity to connect with others. For her upcoming 100th birthday, Kirschenbaum is prioritizing meaningful connections over material gifts, requesting her family to engage with one another as the ultimate present.