Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.
According to the World Health Organization, global average life expectancy has more than doubled since 1900. Unlocking the secrets to human longevity is a complex science, but understanding **why do people live to old age** involves a fascinating interplay of genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices.
Research consistently shows that while genetics influence our potential lifespan, they only account for a portion of our overall longevity, leaving the majority to be shaped by modifiable factors. So, **what is the best predictor of how long you will live**? The answer is more complex—and empowering—than a single gene or family trait.
According to the World Health Organization, lifestyle choices account for over 60% of our overall health and quality of life. While many people wonder which single factor is most important for promoting healthy aging, research reveals there is no single answer. Instead, a comprehensive approach focusing on several key areas—particularly lifestyle, social connections, and mental well-being—is the most powerful strategy for living a longer, healthier life.
Genetics account for only about 25% of our longevity, with the remaining 75% being shaped by lifestyle and environment. For older adults and those planning for the future, understanding what environmental factors are important for healthy aging can have a significant and positive impact on quality of life and overall well-being.
According to the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on happiness and longevity, good relationships are the most consistent discovery for keeping people happier and healthier for longer. This insight, explored in depth in this article, helps answer the question, **What is the greatest indicator of longevity?**
According to a 2019 study published in *JAMA Network Open*, older adults with a stronger sense of purpose were significantly less likely to die over a five-year period. This growing body of research confirms a powerful link between having a **purpose in life and positive health outcomes among older adults**, influencing everything from cardiovascular health to cognitive function.
According to a 2023 McKinsey Health Institute survey, older adults widely agree on the importance of purpose, meaningful connections, and independence for healthy aging. A fulfilling later life often depends not on grand achievements but on finding clarity in the priorities that shape happiness and well-being. So, what matters most in old age?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthy aging is more than just avoiding disease; it's about optimizing opportunities for good health, active participation, and enhanced security as you get older. Discover **what are the signs that you are aging well** and how to cultivate them in your own life.
According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), lifestyle choices can influence your lifespan even more than genetics. Learning how to prolong your lifespan involves proactive choices that nourish your body and mind for the long haul, helping you to not only add years to your life, but also life to your years.
According to the World Health Organization, life expectancy has increased significantly, making the years after 65 a major phase of human development. This stage, commonly known as late adulthood, is a dynamic period encompassing unique biological, psychological, and social changes that redefine one's place in the world.
