Longevity is influenced by several factors; while age, race, gender and genes are out of our control, factors such as diet, alcohol consumption, drug use, activity levels and social interaction are up to us.
A 90-year-old revealed that her secret to longevity is daily exercise, telling others that "if you don't use it, you'll lose it".
A TikTok creator who goes by Gluten Free Gut Health Girl (@connievalentinecurrie) introduced her mother on the sharing platform.
She said to viewers: "Want to stay strong for life? Listen to tips from my 90-year-old mum."
'If you don't use it, you'll lose it'
TikTok/@connievalentinecurrie
The nonagenarian shared that she enjoys two daily walks: one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
While she didn't specify how many steps she aims for per day, she revealed that she exercises "constantly".
Explaining why she prioritises movement for longevity, the 90-year-old said: "If you don't use it, you'll lose it."
Regular walks ensure she remains "very active", with the nonagenarian adding that she "has no memory problems at all".
Impressively, she takes exercise one step further, telling viewers that she also enjoys weight training at the gym.
While many people allow their age to define them and even accept defeat as their bodies slow down, these activities ensure she "has no limitations".
Exercise is hailed as an important pillar of longevity, with walking proving crucial for healthy ageing.
In 'The multifaceted benefits of walking for healthy aging: from Blue Zones to molecular mechanisms', published in the National Library of Medicine, experts confirmed that "physical activity, including walking, has numerous health benefits in older adults".
They added: "Walking decreases the risk or severity of various health outcomes such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cognitive impairment and dementia, while also improving mental well-being, sleep, and longevity."
Experts from Harvard Medical School confirmed that adding weight lifting to your workouts may further boost longevity.
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'Walking decreases the risk or severity of various health outcomes'
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Referencing a study of 100,000 55- to 74-year-olds, researchers found that after a nine-year follow-up, "weight lifting alone was linked to a nine to 22 per cent lower risk of dying".
Moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise was seen as an even bigger longevity booster, appearing to lower participants' mortality risk by 24 to 34 per cent.
But the study (published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine) found that the "greatest longevity gains" were among those who did both types of exercise, with a mortality risk reduction of 41 to 47 per cent.
As for the effects exercise can have on the brain, the Alzheimer's Society pointed to research that says "people who take regular exercise may be up to 20 per cent less likely to develop dementia than those who don't take regular exercise".
The NHS provides helpful guidance on exercising over 65. If you are unsure how to get started, how much you need to do, or have any health concerns, always consult your GP.
