Longevity researchers often look to older populations to unearth the secrets of those who age exceptionally well.
Now social media platforms are also seeing an uptick in seniors sharing their own longevity secrets.
Recently, Hana Elson shared a post on TikTok featuring her grandmother as she celebrated her impressive 90th birthday milestone.
“I feel great, I don’t feel 90," her grandma shared. "I do yoga every day and I try to get in 6,000 steps a day.
The 90-year-old practices yoga every day
TIKTOK
“I live in an area where the scenery is magnificent, I live an hour away from 18 of my family members.
“I was married 66 years to a great guy and I love to laugh. Live in the present, don’t live in the past, you’re not promised a tomorrow."
Many factors contribute to longevity, including genetics, lifestyle, and environment, but exercise consistently stands out as one of the most impactful.
The benefits of walking have been investigated at length, with strong support from observational and interventional studies.
In 2023, the Journal of Geroscience stated: “Walking decreases the risk or severity of various health outcomes such as cardiovascular, cerebrovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes Mellitus, cognitive impairment and dementia, while also improving mental well-being.
“Meeting current physical activity guidelines by walking briskly for 30 per day for five days can reduce the risk of several age-associated diseases.”
Walking can be considered better than other types of exercise for ageing because it is low-impact and accessible, making it easy to adapt to different fitness levels.
Beyond its cardiovascular benefits, it offers better balance, thus reducing the risk of falls. It also supports mental wellbeing.
Over 65s are encouraged to walk daily to protect their cardiovascular health
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Likewise, yoga is believed to help ageing populations by improving flexibility, balance and strength.
Researchers also agree that social connections help people live longer and healthier lives.
Experts at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health noted that being socially disconnected is associated with a higher risk of illness.
“Loneliness and social isolation have been shown to increase the risk for premature death by 26 per cent and 29 per cent respectively," they noted.
