Super-Ager What is One and Why Would You Want to be One?

A super-ager is the term used to describe men and women ages 70 and above who, despite their chronological age, have the mind and body of someone decades younger. While their counterparts see a decline in their minds and/or bodies as they age, super-ages seem to be holding steady.

When people think of super-agers, they may think of the men and women living in Okinawa Japan. Studies have been conducted on how and why Okinawans go past other communities and live well into their 100’s. The findings may not surprise you. Okinawans and other centenarians have things in common that help them maintain healthy minds and bodies. Some of those commonalities include:

• Diet
• Exercise
• Social circle
•  Mindfulness
•  Sleep routine and more!

As of 2024 there were over 101,000 people over the age of 100 living in America. That’s 0.03% of people considered elderly. Those numbers are growing by leaps and bounds. It seems that living a long and healthy life is possible and with some intentionality, you can increase your likelihood of being a super-ager too.

Super-Ager, Why Would You Want to be One?

Being one isn’t just about the quantity of candles on your cake. It’s about the quality of your daily life. Super-agers seem to defy aging and stay mentally and physically sound which makes their twilight years richer, healthier, and more independent.

You may not be able to stop time, but you can control how your mind and body respond as you grow older. Being mentally and physically fit can help with:

1. Mobility
2. Mental acuity
3. Access to your social circle

These healthy abilities enrich life and make it easier to remain independent, free from pain, and experience less isolation as you age.

Can Anyone be a Super-Ager?

While factors like genetics do play a part in achieving super-ager status, there are actions anyone can take to increase their likelihood of aging in a healthier way. It may not surprise you to find that many of the activities that lead to super-ager status are the same activities that:

• Prevent illness
• Reduce stress
• Boost immunities
•  Increase personal happiness

So, yes, anyone can do their part to be a super-ager. Even if you don’t live to be 100, taking the steps to ensure your life is healthier and happier will certainly make every year you have the best it can be.

Do you know anyone that is aging superbly? What things would you do yourself to become a super-ager? Is this something that would be important to you?