Catherina becomes a Super Centenarian!

South Australia’s oldest resident, Catherina van der Linden, became a super centenarian when she celebrated her 110th birthday on Friday 26 August.

Mrs van der Linden said the secret to her longevity is maintaining an active lifestyle, which sees her hit the gym at her home – Southern Cross Care’s West Beach Residential Care – twice a week and going for two walks every day.

From horse drawn cart to motor cars and kerosene to electricity, the world has changed significantly in her lifetime. Born in the Netherlands in 1912, Mrs van der Linden has lived through two pandemics and two world wars. A mother of 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, she migrated to Australia with her husband and young family in 1955 and went on to work in full time paid employment.

Roles included grape picker, nursing assistant, typist and clerical assistant. Mrs van der Linden developed an interest in fashion and dressmaking from her mother and father who were a seamstress and tailor.

Aside from her active hobbies, Mrs van der Linden enjoys playing card games, gardening and socialising with fellow residents.

Mrs van der Linden celebrated her milestone birthday with family, residents and staff at West Beach Residential Care on Friday 26 August. Southern Cross Care CEO, David Moran, said Catherina praised Catherina for being an inspiration to the community. 

“Catherina is a leading example of an older South Australian who lives better for life by embracing a healthy and active lifestyle,” Mr Moran said.

“Our staff have a genuine sense of purpose in their work and consider it a great privilege to care for Catherina as South Australia’s oldest resident.”

“Catherina is a South Australian treasure who brings joy to our staff with her positive outlook and commitment to living better for life.”