Japan's elderly cheerleaders know how to pom-pom

It's well known that Japan boasts the longest life expectancy in the world. According to the World Health Organization, Japanese women can expect to reach an impressive 86. But Fumie Takano is no ordinary 78-year-old.

Founder of Japan Pom-Pom 15 years ago, she leads a cheerleading group that performs at nursing homes, charity events and even at Japan's dance championships.

An unavoidable fate

Reuters reports that when she first started cheerleading, her relatives hated her wearing costumes with short skirts because they were embarrassed. “Who cares?“ she replied. “I just love wearing them!”

About growing old she explained, “You can’t avoid getting old. Aging means people deteriorate physically and mentally. But…” she added with a smile, “everyone gets old, so why not just have fun?”

In an inspiring video interview she tells how important it is for Japan's rapidly ageing population to enjoy their life and get inspiration from the country's youth, as well as keep both body and mind in shape -- something these ladies do by memorizing routines.