Longevity is something so many of us aspire to achieve, and aside from factors such as age, race and gender, there are plenty of things people can do to boost their chances of a long lifespan.
Indeed, research shows that lifestyle choices play a significant role in how we age, for example, exercise routines, social engagement patterns, alcohol consumption, drug use and diet.
One 108-year-old took to social media to share her wisdom on living a long and fulfilling life.
Speaking to TikTok users via ‘Centenarian Secrets! 108!’, Sally (who goes by @mrssunnymead) revealed that maintaining curiosity is her key to longevity.
‘When getting older, don’t lose your curiosity’
TikTok / @mrssunnymead
She advised others: “When getting older, don’t lose your curiosity – I think that keeps you interested and gives you a more interesting life if you really want to know about everything.”
Her message emphasised the importance of staying mentally engaged throughout the ageing process.
This can be done by maintaining social connections and having regular conversations, as well as keeping the mind active through hobbies such as reading.
An article entitled ‘Crucial factors affecting longevity’, published in The Lancet Health Longevity, confirmed the link between social connection and living a longer life.
This read: “In The Lancet Health Longevity, Jun Wang and colleagues propose a unique score to define an active lifestyle, including physical, mental and social activities.
“This definition of an active life including social activities is an important reminder that social connections have a vital role in the maintenance of brain function.”
As for reading, an article entitled ‘A Chapter a Day – Association of Book Reading with Longevity’, published in the National Library of Medicine, confirmed that reading is an effective habit to develop for a longer life.
In a study of 3,635 participants, book readers saw a 20 per cent reduction in risk of mortality over 12 years of follow-up compared to non-book readers.
A 93-year-old who is ageing gracefully also took to TikTok to share his secret to longevity.
Speaking to Yair (@yairbrachiyahu), the nonagenarian highlighted several daily activities that keep him young, revealing that exercise is the cornerstone of his healthy lifestyle.
“The biggest thing is exercise,” the 93-year-old explained on the social media platform. “You have to have something you do.”
His straightforward advice emphasised the importance of staying active in later life.
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Prioritising social interaction is important for the ‘maintenance of brain function’
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According to NHS guidelines, adults over 65 should be physically active daily, even if just lightly.
Senior adults should also do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity for those already active. They should also focus on strength and balance exercises twice weekly.
The NHS also stressed the importance of exercise for fall prevention, stating: “If you’ve fallen or are worried about falling, doing exercises to improve your strength, balance and flexibility will help make you stronger and feel more confident on your feet.”
If you are concerned about your activity levels or have any other health worries, always consult your GP for tailored advice.
