Living to 100 Years old

I read an interesting article in TIME magazine about centenarians. (people who live to 100 years old) It cited research that said living to a ripe old age is a process that has two factors. Genetics is definitely a factor, accounting for 30% of a persons ability to age gracefully to 100, but behaviors and habits account for 70% of this ability. So, even if you have short-lived genes, you can extend your life by having healthy habits.

This picture, by the way, is a group of siblings all from the same family that are part of the aging study, called the Long Life Family Study (LLFS). This picture includes Six of the eight Hurlburt siblings all of which live in New England, including Peggy (79), Helen (88), Millie (93), Peter (80), Agnes (96) and Muriel (89).

The study included many previously examined reasons for healthy aging including caloric restriction ( the idea that an extremely low-calorie, high nutrition diet prolongs life. more info here) and the tried-and-true healthy diet, regular exercise, and mental agility training method we all know and love. It appears that certain aspects of both of these methods have some truth to them. To stay healthy, a good diet is key. We all know this. But, the debate centers around what, exactly, that diet should contain. Along with diet, we all know exercise is key to a healthy body, but research shows that exercise can also help keep a healthy mind. The study showed that seniors who regularly exercised with resistance or weights had greater mental acuity.

Another key to healthy aging that was mentioned in the article was one that I have been told many times by my own elderly family members. Learning and activity keeps the mind sharp. Elderly people who keep regular hobbies and activities including social interactions have greater mental acuity and problem solving skills. Learning a new language or skill after middle age appears to be a valuable component in healthy aging.

Of course, the issue is extremely complicated and not totally understood yet, but the article raised some very interesting points. For the full article, click here.