As older adults continue to reach new age milestones – with some seniors becoming centenarians or even supercentenarians – the factors that can impact longevity become increasingly important to consider. After all, you want to grow older in good health and with a high quality of life.
Whether your goal is to find out the secret to living to record-breaking years, or if you simply want to work toward better overall health, we’re sharing some of the positive ways you can impact your senior health and longevity.
What factors affect longevity? What can you do to enhance it?
Many circumstances can impact our average life expectancy; some may be controllable, while others are not. With life expectancy at 77 years as of 2020 in the United States, and many people living longer than this, check out some of the key factors that can make the biggest impact on longevity while reducing your risks and increasing your likelihood of staying healthy.
Genetics
Genetics play a big role in health and wellness for seniors, which also impacts longevity. For example, some diseases and illnesses can put you more at risk, like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This makes it important to:
- Talk to family members about their medical history
- Get regular medical screenings
- Keep close tabs on heart disease
- Visit your doctor on a regular basis
- Keep a record of your health conditions so you can make family members aware
Gender can also impact longevity, with some studies showing that women may live slightly longer than men. This was mainly due to women striving for healthier lifestyle habits and men being more likely to engage in risky behavior. Interestingly enough, this is currently being challenged by a new study showing that men who are married and men who have college degrees may be more likely to outlive women.
Genetics may play a predictive part in longevity, too. If family members lived a longer period of time, it’s possible you could, as well.
Lifestyle Factors
Your lifestyle can impact longevity in a number of ways. Good health habits can increase your life expectancy, so be sure to manage your overall mental and physical health as well as your emotional health.
- Get regular exercise and stay physically active – both of which are critical for maintaining a healthy weight and promoting muscle retention, balance and more
- Eat well-balanced, nutritious meals
- Stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake
- Get adequate sleep at night
- Adopt a positive outlook and mindset
Socialization
Socialization can impact your mental health, increasing the risks of depression and isolation. In fact, those who are lonely may be more likely to stop pursuing activities they love, engaging in lifelong learning, or spending time with others. For better health in your retirement years, it’s important to:
- Join special interest clubs or social groups
- Pursue educational classes or opportunities
- Try a new hobby that piques your interests
- Plan activities with friends and be open to meeting new people
Environment
While you may not consider this often, your environment can also impact longevity.
- If transportation is an issue, it may be harder for you to connect with others, volunteer or work part time in your free time, get involved in the community, or enjoy lifelong learning opportunities
- If you live at home, especially if you live alone, you may not be as likely to cook healthy meals for yourself or shop for yourself
- You may be farther away from healthcare and support if needed
To combat this, many seniors begin to consider moving to a more urban area, or they may move to a senior living community – putting them conveniently close to healthcare, entertainment, social opportunities and more.
Plan Well for the Future with Waterstone at the Circle
At a community like ours, you’ll find like-minded individuals, access to healthcare services, gourmet dining, a wide range of social and cultural events, and an active, worry-free lifestyle. It’s everything you need to live healthy and well.
For more information about life at Waterstone at the Circle, contact our team or schedule a visit today. We’d love to share all the ways we keep residents active, engaged and healthy as they age – all while experiencing a lifestyle they love.
EXPERIENCE ALL WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE HAS TO OFFER
The best way to get a feel for whether Waterstone at the Circle is right for you is by visiting, talking with residents, and exploring our lifestyle for yourself. Schedule a tour or visit our website today to learn more about our premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over.