A doctor has revealed three traits that super-agers typically share.
The term “super-ager” refers to elderly individuals who possess remarkable cognitive abilities, physical capabilities and behavioural characteristics compared to their peers in the same age group.
While genetics can play a role in achieving this, there are lifestyle factors you should also consider if you want to increase your longevity.
Dr Amy Shah has come across numerous super-agers during her career – including her own parents! She has therefore decided to impart her wisdom to others seeking to live a lengthy and healthy life.
The medical professional suggests these three traits that anyone can focus on…
1. Maintain social connections
Participating in discussions and social gatherings exercises memory, focus, communication, and problem-solving abilities, ensuring the brain remains active and flexible.
Additionally, social environments frequently introduce you to fresh concepts, viewpoints, and knowledge, which enhances cognitive performance.
Dr Amy appreciates that her Indian parents benefit from a vibrant community that provides support and social bonds as they grow older.
If you don’t have many social connections currently, don’t fret. You can get involved by signing up to clubs, volunteering or spending time with friends and family.
2. Remain physically active
Physical activity, particularly cardiovascular exercise, has been proven to enlarge the hippocampus (a crucial memory hub) and reduce age-related brain deterioration.
Furthermore, it enhances blood flow to the brain, encourages the development of new brain cells, supports psychological wellbeing and establishes routine.
Dr Amy suggests performing three straightforward exercises daily to maintain physical fitness – lowering yourself to the floor and rising again, balancing on one foot and executing a deep squat.
According to the NHS, adults aged 65 and over should aim to:
- be physically active every day, even if it’s just light activity
- do activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility on at least 2 days a week
- do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity if you are already active, or a combination of both
- reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity
3. Stimulate your mind
Brain training assists in becoming a super ager by enhancing cognitive abilities, fostering brain plasticity, postponing cognitive deterioration, encouraging continuous learning, and improving emotional wellbeing.
To maintain an active mind, ensure you’re pushing yourself with fresh and diverse activities to keep your brain ticking along nicely.
Dr Amy suggests puzzles, mastering a new dance or taking up a musical instrument as enjoyable methods to accomplish this.
The NHS states that learning new skills can also aid your mental wellbeing by:
- boosting self-confidence and raising self-esteem
- helping you to build a sense of purpose
- helping you to connect with others
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
