The Ageless Wonders: Why Some People Just Don’t Seem to Age
On August 10, Barbara Humbert and Charly Bancarel proved to the world that aging is merely a suggestion. Barbara, 84, and Charly, a sprightly 94, lined up for the Paris Marathon—because why not? Everyone else is busy complaining about getting up from the couch, while these two must be on the conspiracy to make us all feel like old slippers. Barbara even completed the Millau 100 km twice! You’ve got to hand it to her; if I attempted that, I’d be more likely to cause a traffic jam than finish the race. But she said, “When you get older, it’s good to set a goal to move forward.” Clearly, her goals involve running marathons, while mine involve navigating the snack aisle at 3 AM.
Why Do Some People Look Much Younger Than Their Age?
“Youth is not a period of life; it is a state of mind!”— General MacArthur must have been referring to my friend Derek, who still thinks he’s 25 despite a gut that suggests otherwise. According to psychologist Markus Wettstein from Humboldt University, feeling young correlates with staying healthy. Who knew my inner child could help me avoid those back pains! Dr. Olivier de Ladoucette chimes in, saying our perception of age is flexible, especially up to 65—when people generally feel about 10 to 15 years younger. You know, like how I feel when I’m staring at my tax returns.
You Have Beautiful Genes, You Know
But let’s be real; some of us have genes that apparently look like they’ve been through a rough night out. Genetics play a role, but remember: if you’re washing down your kale salad with a bottle of wine every night, you might be sabotaging your own aging strategy. The wisdom here is that longevity isn’t just about what you’re born with; it’s about *what you choose to do with it*. So, if you want to age like a fine wine, drop the Twinkies and maybe pick up a kettlebell instead.
Being Young: What If It Started in the Head?
Researchers have been scratching their heads over the centenarians of Okinawa. Initially, they thought, “Ah, must be genetics!” It turns out, it’s more about their diet, community, and mindset. They live long by eating fresh food, gardening, stressing less, and socializing more than I do at my local pub quiz night. Dr. de Ladoucette confirms, “To live 100 years, you need a particular personality and above all love life.” It’s like being given the fountain of youth, minus the awkward selfie.
“Longevity is in the mind: we are all actors in our advancing age.” — Dr. Olivier de Ladoucette
How to Stay Mentally Young: Tips for Staying Young After 50
Listening up, everyone! Whether you’re a social butterfly or a hermit in your basement gaming cave, there are ways to keep that mind and body in peak shape! Starting with…
Give Meaning to Your Life
Retirement can be a double-edged sword. One minute you’re climbing the corporate ladder; the next, you’re contemplating existential dread over your morning coffee. It’s vital to prepare for that transition. Find hobbies, embrace passions, and remember—staying active doesn’t just mean lifting your remote. If you were once an avid philatelist, stamp collecting isn’t just for old folks; it’s the ticket to social engagement and—dare I say—**fun**!
See the Glass Half Full
Speaking of being cheerful, studies show optimism can extend your life! Who would’ve thought being a sunshine could literally add years? Some research claims that optimistic people live about four years longer. That’s four extra years of hearing your younger relatives explain TikTok to you!
Cultivate Your Curiosity
Don’t let your brain collect dust! Dive into new hobbies—whether it’s salsa dancing or suddenly becoming an expert on 19th-century Russian literature. The brain loves a good workout as much as the body does. You see, life begins at…*not at your 9-5* but at your eclectic hobbies club!
Keep in Touch
Loneliness can be more dangerous than a bad haircut. According to Dr. de Ladoucette, “Man is not made to live alone.” However, if your social circle resembles that of a hermit crab, maybe it’s time to engage more with the community. Remember, it’s not the size of your social media following; it’s about forging real connections—unless your friends are all cats, then you might be on your own.
Stay Active!
Finally, get moving! A healthy diet paired with regular exercise is crucial. Physical activity doesn’t have to mean scaling Everest; even a walk to the end of the street counts! Endorphins are your friends; they’ll keep you perky and make sure getting older feels less like a chore and more like a cheerful dance through life.
So whether you’re an elder marathoner, a curious retiree, or just someone who wants to dodge the dreaded “senior” label, remember: aging is merely a number, and it doesn’t define your spirit. Now get out, live your life, and for goodness’ sake, eat that kale!
On August 10, Barbara Humbert joined the ranks of 20,024 fortunate individuals at the start line of the highly anticipated 2024 Paris Marathon for All, while her fellow participant, Charly Bancarel, prepared to take on the 10-kilometer challenge. Among the inspiring highlights of this event were its remarkable elder participants, aged 84 and 94 years, each embodying the race’s spirit of resilience and vitality. What’s their secret to longevity and fitness? Simply to keep moving! “We age when we stop moving,” the spirited nonagenarian divulged several months back in an interview with Ouest France. Her sentiment echoed the motivations of Barbara, a seasoned participant who has completed the Millau 100 km marathon not once but twice. “Setting goals is pivotal as you age; it pushes you to progress and stay engaged,” Barbara shared on the I Like Running website. With her 80th birthday marking a significant milestone, she was invigorated by the accomplishments of her first 100 km race, which inspired her to tackle another. Barbara advocates for embarking on new adventures, whether it’s picking up a new language, exploring nature with friends, or traveling to distant lands, stating boldly: “Age has no bearing on the ability to remain youthful!”
Why do some people look much younger than their age?
Psychologist Markus Wettstein from Humboldt University, Berlin emphasizes that individuals who perceive themselves as younger often experience better health over time, showcasing fewer signs of depression, a reduced risk of dementia, and a higher likelihood of extended healthy longevity. Dr. Olivier de Ladoucette supports this notion, asserting: “We should embrace the idea that we are not merely defined by our biological age but by our aspirations.” He elaborates further, stating: “Many people, particularly up to the age of 65, feel 10 to 15 years younger than their chronological age. This phenomenon, known as subjective age, is influenced by our physiological, social, and cognitive conditions. As people age, this perception often narrows due to varying health statuses; for instance, those with Parkinson’s disease at 75 will likely experience less divergence between their chronological and subjective ages than those thriving at the same age.”
You have beautiful genes, you know
Certain environmental factors, such as diet, tobacco usage, and alcohol consumption, significantly influence how we age, alongside genetics. “While chromosomes do play a role in longevity, studies—especially those involving twins—indicate that genetics only account for approximately 40% of our aging process.” This perspective provides insight into the critical impact of personal lifestyle choices. Dr. Ladoucette notes that post-50, the divergence in aging paths becomes evident and heavily influenced by both genetic inheritance and individual lifestyle choices. “For individuals who have lived recklessly, the consequences often emerge over time,” he warns.
Being young: what if it started in the head?
Researchers have closely studied the extraordinary longevity of Okinawa’s centenarians in Japan. Initially, researchers presumed exclusive genetic advantages were at play, only to observe that Okinawans who moved to different countries tended to see their life expectancy gradually decline to match their new environments, suggesting genetics isn’t the sole factor. The remarkable longevity of Okinawans appears heavily influenced by their lifestyle, which includes a diet rich in fresh produce and seafood, regular physical activity like walking and gardening, stress management, and a positive mental outlook!
“To live to 100, one must exhibit a unique personality and, above all, a zest for life,” asserts Dr. Olivier de Ladoucette. He adds, “Longevity thrives in our minds; we are all masters of our aging process. Ultimately, it is our choices and behaviors that dictate the quality and length of our lives…”.
How to stay mentally young? What are the tips for staying young after 50?
Cultivating a sense of curiosity and optimism, enhancing memory skills, feeling a sense of usefulness, and maintaining a desire to help others are pivotal in aging gracefully and preserving mental youth.
Give meaning to your life
As individuals transition into retirement around 65, this shift can create a significant disruption in lifestyle. “It’s crucial to prepare for this transition beforehand to help build a life imbued with purpose and fulfillment,” advises a seasoned geriatrician. “Depending on one’s interests, from philately to hiking, a continued engagement in activities that generate pleasure and stimulate both the mind and body is essential.”
See the glass half full
Research in experimental psychology consistently shows the positive effects of optimism on health. A notable 25-year study by the American Geriatric Society, considering 160,000 women aged 50 to 80, revealed that the most optimistic individuals on average lived four years longer than their less optimistic counterparts. Further analysis by St. Luke’s Hospital involving 230,000 participants posits that optimism could reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 35% and decrease death risk by 14%.
Cultivate your curiosity
“Stagnation can lead to routine and dullness,” stresses the specialist. “Engaging in various intellectual pursuits—be it sudoku, bridge, or creative activities—can keep life vibrant and fulfilling. What matters is fostering connections with others in pursuits that inspire and excite.” Whether it is enrolling in an Italian class, taking up ceramics, drawing, or attending stimulating discussions on art history, there is truly no age limit to continue exploring interests and learning!
Keep in touch
Multiple studies have underscored the critical role of social connections in maintaining health. “Human beings are inherently social creatures,” affirms Dr. Olivier de Ladoucette. “Loneliness can accelerate illness and lead to premature death.” In Okinawa, the community life and engagement of older individuals through shared interests and teamwork significantly contribute to their remarkable life expectancy. “The concept of moai plays a vital role,” notes Rob Goss in National Geographic, “bringing together groups with shared interests and emphasizing mutual support. Buettner highlights the detrimental impact of loneliness on overall well-being, likening its effects to the hazards of smoking.”
Stay active!
A nutritious diet, paired with regular physical activity, forms the foundation of healthy aging. Exercise promotes the release of hormones like endorphins, which play a crucial role in alleviating stress, improving sleep quality, and even reducing pain. The importance of physical activity is ingrained in the lifestyles of Okinawan residents. “After fifty, it’s time to recognize that physical activity isn’t merely the pursuit of those in sports but is beneficial to individuals regardless of age or fitness level,” concludes the specialists. Join in on activities like walking, biking, dancing, or yoga—your future self will thank you!
