Living beyond a century is no longer a rare achievement because people are more aware and the quality of care is far better. According to a report by the UN, the number of centenarians in the world is projected to increase from 573,000 in 2020 to 3.7 million in 2050. So, what’s the secret to living a long and healthy life? What do people who live longer do differently from others?
Well, there are no proven answers to these questions, but centenarians definitely have some words of wisdom for everyone else. Wouldn’t you want to know them? It turns out that some of their secrets are surprising. Let’s share five longevity secrets from happy seniors that may actually help you live a longer life.
Stay as active as possible
Age shouldn’t slow you down because staying active makes you look and feel young. You can pick activities like gardening and walking as a senior when vigorous exercise does not work for you.
Research has shown that physical activity can help prevent chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, which are common causes of premature death. So keep moving and counting the years!
Find humor in life
Healthy, aging adults understand the significance of humor for longevity. Laughter has been shown to reduce stress and boost the immune system, which can help ward off illness and disease.
You can watch comedy shows, read funny books, and spend time with children and like-minded seniors to enjoy a good laugh more often than not. Think beyond laughing, and try to do things that make you happy.
Ditch unnecessary medication
As you age, you probably have more pills in your medicine closet. Of course, you may need them to deal with chronic illnesses. But ditching unnecessary medicines saves you from side effects and helps you live longer. Try natural remedies for common conditions like pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
For example, cannabis can help you deal with all of them. The best part is that it is safe and legal, and you can order cheap dabs or edibles with a few clicks. But remember to stick with quality products and ideal doses.
Stay connected
Staying connected to loved ones is another longevity secret of happy centenarians. Studies have shown that social connections can help reduce the risk of depression and cognitive decline, which are common among the elderly.
Find ways to spend quality time with family, make new friends, and participate in community initiatives. Your partner can be a supportive pillar, so appreciate them when they are around.
Keep your mind sharp
Keeping your mind sharp can actually help you live longer. Most importantly, it lowers the risk of age-related cognitive decline and dementia. The best thing is that mental stimulation is easier than you imagine.
You can pick a new hobby, learn a language, and play brain games with friends and grandchildren. Find ways to challenge your brain to keep it active as long as you live.
Centenarians definitely share commonalities when it comes to longevity. They all emphasize a healthy and active lifestyle and prioritize their happiness and self-care. If you wish to live longer, embrace these secrets from today!
