An increasing number of people are reaching an advanced age, but how we spend these extra years is just as important. Scientists at the Buck Institute show that our healthy years, also known as ‘healthspan’, are influenced much more by our habits than by our genes.
Although genetics determines only a small part of how quickly we age, lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep and mental challenge play a major role. This means that many of the diseases associated with ageing, such as heart problems, cancer and dementia, can be partly prevented through healthier choices. It is all about living longer in good health and vitality.
Research shows that by making conscious adjustments in your life, you can extend your healthy life expectancy by 10 to 15 years. It is not necessary to deny yourself everything in the process. For example, having a glass of wine or enjoying a dessert sometimes remains possible, as long as you mainly develop and maintain healthy routines.
The Buck Institute has been working for decades on better understanding the ageing process. Their knowledge helps us realise that getting older does not have to be irreversible decline. By starting healthier habits on time, we can not only live longer, but above all healthier and with more enjoyment.
This is positive news for people who want to age healthily: your own lifestyle makes the biggest difference to how vital you remain as the years go by.
Source: Buck Institute
