Many hope to maintain an agile, healthy body with ample energy at age 80, similar to their 40s.
Jan Gerber, founder of Paracelsus Recovery, a psychology clinic in Zurich, Switzerland, notes a growing number of entrepreneurs seeking his help for gerontophobia (fear of aging). "They can buy almost anything, but they cannot buy more time," Gerber stated.
Initially, these clients adopt healthy eating and exercise routines. This often escalates into an obsession with body control. They spend hours daily monitoring data from smartwatches, health tracking rings, and blood glucose monitors, consuming supplements, and experimenting with longevity therapies.
However, these health-improving habits often lead to increased stress. Many decline family gatherings or cancel plans with friends to adhere to strict diets and workout schedules. Self-imposed rules increasingly dictate their lives.
Gerber observes that many clients experience loneliness, insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, or depression. "If they miss a workout or don't get enough sleep, they feel guilty, believing they are harming their future," he explained.
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Illustrative photo: New York Post.
Doctor Jordan Shlain, founder of Private Medical in the US, reports similar patterns among his wealthy clients. He notes that instead of enjoying life, they spend time meticulously calculating meals, tracking metrics, and worrying about potential future illnesses.
This obsession can also lead to physical harm. Some individuals develop health problems due to the misuse of supplements, excessive fasting, or over-exercising.
Experts agree that the desire to live a long, healthy life is natural. However, when the fear of aging dictates every decision, it can cause individuals to lose sight of the present's most valuable aspects.
A healthy life is measured not only by its duration but also by the ability to enjoy the years one has. The paradox of gerontophobia is that the more one tries to prolong the future, the more they miss out on the life unfolding before them.
Nhat Minh (According to New York Post)
