Maintaining health and mental sharpness is a goal for most as they age. However, a group known as "SuperAgers" appears to have mastered this throughout their lives, even in their later years.
The term "SuperAgers" was coined by researchers at Northwestern University (US). They define these individuals as "people over 80 years old with memory capabilities equivalent to those at least three decades younger." Northwestern University is also one of the few institutions globally with an in-depth research program on this "super-aging" phenomenon.
Experts emphasize that "SuperAgers" are not merely individuals who live long. The core difference lies in their brains. Studies indicate that the brains of this group appear identical to those of younger people.
Specifically, according to Northwestern Medicine (part of the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University), SuperAgers exhibit significantly less brain volume loss compared to those who simply live long. For instance, a healthy 87-year-old might have a brain commensurate with their actual age, but a "SuperAger" of the same age possesses a much younger brain structure.
Doctor Tamar Gefen at the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease (Feinberg School of Medicine), notes: "Currently, there is no special 'trick' to becoming a SuperAger."
"Like most aging trajectories or living conditions, it's a combination of biology, environment, and individual effort," she said. However, according to Jennifer Ailshire, an associate professor of gerontology at the University of Southern California, this group often shares certain qualities.
"We consider SuperAgers to be those who reach the age of 85, meaning they have surpassed the average life expectancy of their generation," Ailshire stated, adding that a "SuperAger" is not just someone who lives long, but also someone who maintains a high level of physical, cognitive, psychological, and social connections.
The way each individual achieves these qualities can vary significantly.
"For some, it's having a few beers in the evening. For others, it's saying no to bad habits. Some seniors are still running successful businesses, while others retired years ago," Doctor Gefen shared. The biggest commonality is that most are active in social endeavors or engage in continuous, meaningful activities. However, there are always exceptions.
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Simple habits like gardening, crafting, or cleaning the house also help extend longevity. Photo: Globe Trender |
While researchers confirm there isn't a direct path to becoming a SuperAger, you can still learn 5 positive habits from them to enhance cognitive and physical function as you age:
Maintain regular physical activity
"Many studies demonstrate that daily movement is closely linked to both longevity and healthy aging," Ailshire said, adding that she avoids the word "exercise" because many assume it means going to the gym or running. In reality, it can simply be gardening, crafting, or cleaning the house."
Even walking counts as physical activity. Expert Ailshire emphasizes that a key point for SuperAgers is avoiding a sedentary lifestyle. "It's hard for us to avoid prolonged sitting when most people work with computers. But SuperAgers are often very physically active, and they have maintained that throughout their lives," she added.
Actively engage in social activities
Individuals who age healthily often socialize regularly, whether by spending time with friends and family, volunteering, or meeting colleagues.
Research indicates that those with strong social connections tend to live longer and enjoy better cognitive and physical health.
Minimize controllable stress
Amidst the demands of work, finances, and family matters, life always carries potential pressures. However, to keep your mind and body sharp, you need to minimize unnecessary stress at all costs.
"Some SuperAgers say they never get involved in other people's drama, trying to control anger and stress," Ailshire shared. She noted being impressed by how they actively avoid stress to the maximum and do not create pressure for themselves.
Challenge your brain
Cognitive stimulation is a crucial factor for healthy aging. "It's never too late to learn a new language, learn to play a musical instrument, or do anything that truly challenges your intellect," Ailshire suggested.
However, the key is to find enjoyment. Doctor Gefen notes that if a task (like solving crossword puzzles) makes you feel anxious or tired, simply skip it.
Dedicate time to favorite activities
Based on scientific literature and direct interactions, Ailshire concludes that healthy older adults are "people who are doing things that make them feel happy and fulfilled."
Doctor Gefen agrees: "Depending on each person's circumstances, the advice is to engage in activities that are engaging, interesting, motivating, and stress-free."
My Y (According to Huffpost)
