Secrets of Super Agers

Super agers are women and men, 90+ years of age, who have the mental and/or physical capabilities that are comparable to healthy middle-aged persons. Extensive research is ongoing with super agers, such as the University of California’s The 90+ Study with more than 1,600 enrolled people. In these studies, scientists and gerontologists collect data on diet, activities, medical history, medications and perform neurological and neuropsychological tests. With super agers, much more research has now pivoted towards brain health, as opposed to just longevity. Presently, your body may make it to 100 years, but your brain may start to ‘run down’ at 80 years or below. Brain aging needs to match longevity. This article will highlight research on 6 meaningful behaviors of super agers including dietary lifestyles, social lives, stress management, sleep, brain games and exercise.