HealthlineWant to Live a Long Life? This 95-Year-Old SuperAger Shares Her Secrets

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A new study by the American Federation for Aging Research is investigating the factors contributing to exceptional longevity in individuals aged 95 and older, known as SuperAgers. The research aims to identify genetic components of healthy aging while also acknowledging the role of lifestyle habits. This study could potentially lead to the development of interventions that mimic the effects of longevity-associated genes, offering insights into promoting healthier aging across the general population.

Key Points:

• The SuperAgers Family Study seeks to recruit 10,000 participants aged 95 and older who are in good physical and mental health, along with their adult children and spouses.
• Genetic factors appear to play a more significant role in achieving SuperAger status than lifestyle habits, according to Dr. Sofiya Milman, Director of Human Longevity Studies at Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
• Previous research has implicated genes regulating HDL cholesterol and growth hormones as potential contributors to longevity.
• Although only about 0.1% of Americans live to be 95 or older, healthy lifestyle habits can help delay the onset of age-related diseases for the general population.
• Lifestyle factors that may contribute to longevity include maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and a positive perception of aging.
• The study’s findings could potentially lead to the development of medications that mimic the effects of longevity-associated genes.

“Keep your hair done, your nails done, and keep looking nice. And be sure you have somebody that will tell you if you have a spot on you or [if] anything is off.”
– SuperAger (95) Sally Froelich

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