Khaberni - In 2007, a research team in California found that "while the majority of seniors suffer from at least two chronic diseases, some reach their eighties in good health, without suffering from any serious illnesses".
Research led by Dr. Eric Topol, a prominent scientist and founder of the Scripps Research Institute, found little difference in the biological makeup of healthy elderly and their peers, "except that they were more physically active, more social, and generally more educated than the general population", hence they were named "healthy seniors", according to The New York Times.
Less than a decade later, researchers at Northwestern University in the U.S. coined the term "super-agers" after discovering that some who surpassed eighty retained cognitive abilities similar to those of people three decades younger.
In 2016, experts confirmed that these elderly are not only classified as long-lived but differ fundamentally "in the brain", as research showed that their brains closely resemble those of much younger people.
Later, in 2023, researchers at the Northwestern Medicine Center observed that elderly individuals who maintain high physical and mental fitness suffer less brain volume reduction compared to those distinguished only by longevity without good health.
Key Behaviors That Contribute to a Longer Healthy Life
Tamar Givon, an assistant professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at Feinberg School of Medicine, explained to the American "HuffPost" that "aging pathways are determined by a mix of biological, environmental, and personal abilities, and there is no magic formula for living an exceptionally long and healthy life".
Jennifer Elsher, an assistant professor of gerontology at the University of Southern California, added that the definition of exceptionally long-lived individuals is not limited to merely reaching the age of 85 but also includes "maintaining a high level of physical, cognitive, psychological, and social health".
Here are five strategies recommended by experts for better health with aging:
Exercising and Avoiding Inactivity
Elsher emphasizes that avoiding inactivity is a cornerstone of the lifestyle of "super-agers", who ensure they remain physically active throughout their lives. Studies indicate that daily physical activity is closely linked to healthy aging and longer life, even if limited to simple activities like gardening, crafts, household chores, or walking.
In this context, Topol believes that "the stronger the body, the better", as reliable studies have shown that physical activity reduces the risks of cancer, depression, diabetes, and generally decreases the likelihood of death. Additionally, engaging in resistance exercises for one hour a week could reduce the risk of death by about 25%, while strength exercises significantly reduce these risks.
Participating in Social Activities
Studies suggest that people who lead an active social life are generally less prone to diseases and death. Dr. Eric Topol confirms this in his book "Super-Agers", noting that healthy elderly people have a "rich social life".
Elsher clarifies that those who maintain good health with aging are keen on regular social interaction, whether by spending time with friends and family, engaging in volunteer work, or interacting professionally with colleagues.
This is supported by research from the Memory and Brain Health Centre at Washington University's School of Medicine, published in 2023, which showed that people with strong social relationships live longer and enjoy better mental and physical health.
Studies suggest that people who lead an active social life are generally less prone to diseases and death, as confirmed by Dr. Eric Topol in his book "Super-Agers", noting that healthy elderly people are characterized by a "rich social life".
Elsher clarifies that those who maintain good health with aging are keen on regular social interaction, whether by spending time with friends and family, engaging in volunteer work, or interacting professionally with colleagues.
This is supported by research from the Memory and Brain Health Centre at Washington University's School of Medicine, published in 2023, which showed that people with strong social relationships live longer and enjoy better mental and physical health.
Therefore, social fitness and forging positive relationships are vital factors for a longer and happier life, according to a long-term study conducted by Harvard University for 86 years and still ongoing.
Managing Stress
Managing stress and promoting mental health are crucial factors in reducing the risks of chronic diseases and death. Eric Topol points out that adopting simple steps can contribute to lowering stress levels and improving overall mental health, including spending more time outdoors and in green spaces.
As life naturally involves work, financial, health, and family pressures, Elsher emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a balance between the brain and body by minimizing unnecessary stress sources as much as possible, recommending avoiding getting involved in other people's problems which could create additional psychological burdens.
Regulating Sleep and Eating Healthy
Adhering to regular sleep times is extremely important, as studies have found that disrupted sleep patterns are associated with an increased risk of death from any cause. Dr. Eric Topol emphasizes that deep sleep plays a pivotal role in healthy aging, indicating that research shows that people who get less deep sleep at night are more likely to suffer from dementia, for example.
In the same vein, longevity experts recommend following a diet close to the Mediterranean diet, as food is the most influential factor in determining lifespan, according to Walter Longo, Professor of Gerontology at the University of Southern California, in his discussion with "CNBC – Make It".
Mental and Cognitive Stimulation
Elsher states that there is no age too late to learn a new language or engage in activities that develop cognitive and mental abilities, emphasizing that mental stimulation is a key element in healthy aging. She notes the variety of means through which one can stimulate the mind with aging, providing they originate from genuine interest and personal enthusiasm; it is not necessary, for example, to insist on solving crossword puzzles if they are not enjoyable or stimulating.
