Reaching the one hundred year milestone is no longer a feat reserved for the lucky few. For example, there are approximately 10,000 centenarians living in the United States, and this number is expected to grow in the coming decades. The good news is that longevity depends largely on our daily choices, and not just on good basic genetics.
Genetics or lifestyle?
Scientific research has clarified a fundamental point: genetic factors affect only 30-40% of lifespan, while the remaining 60-70% is determined by the behaviors and habits we adopt. This means we have considerable leeway to influence our longevity.
For supercentenarians, those over the age of 110, the genetic component becomes more relevant, but for most of us, daily wellness practices are the deciding factor.
The five fundamental habits
Talking about longevity means focusing on healthy aging: maintaining good physical, mental and social health over time. It is not enough to live a long time, the goal is to live well, free from chronic diseases and disabilities.
The Lancet Commission has identified 14 modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline, capable of preventing or delaying up to 45% of cases of dementia. Among these, there are five components that emerge as pillars of healthy aging:
The positive part is that it is never too early or too late to start following a healthy lifestyle, you just need to want it.
The three key indicators of health
There are three simple but effective measures to assess how we are aging: handgrip strength, walking speed and balance.
Grip strength reveals overall muscle strength and overall physical capacity. A slower walk and precarious balance, on the other hand, signal a decline in physical functions and an increased risk of disability.
Balance deserves particular attention: it is essential for moving safely and preventing falls that could compromise independence and quality of life.
When to contact a specialist
Geriatrics is about preserving independence by managing the physical and cognitive health of older people. The right time to consult a geriatrician does not depend on your age, but on your level of functionality.
Some signs require particular attention: repeated falls, difficulty managing multiple medications at the same time, presence of cognitive deficits or physical problems that limit daily activities. Even a recent hospital admission may be an opportunity for a geriatric evaluation.
Recognize early warning signs
Distinguishing normal aging from worrying signs can be difficult, because as we age it is normal to take longer to retrieve information from memory, even though we should be able to adapt to these changes.
Family members should watch for difficulty following conversations, forgetting appointments or recent conversations, problems paying bills or taking medications correctly. Even abandoning hobbies and interests can be a sign not to be underestimated.
When your memory, judgment, or behavior begins to negatively affect your daily life, it’s time to talk to your doctor. A cognitive assessment can clarify the situation through a series of tests that check memory, attention, language and reasoning skills.
Aging well means building a support system over time that preserves our physical and cognitive functions, allowing us to live a long, healthy and satisfying life.
