In recent years, there’s been a lot of focus on longevity—a concept that’s not just about living longer but about living more years in good health. In this month’s Ageing Well blog, we’ll explore what longevity really means, the difference between healthspan and lifespan and what you can do to improve your healthspan.
What is longevity?
Longevity simply means a long life. It refers to the number of years a person lives but in recent years, it’s come to mean more than just living longer. Today, longevity is about living a long life well, keeping a good quality of life throughout your years rather than just adding more years to your life. True longevity is not just measured by the time you have but by how well you feel and function over time.
Healthspan vs. lifespan: what’s the difference?
A key part of ageing well is understanding the difference between healthspan and lifespan. While they might sound similar, they aren’t the same.
Lifespan is the total number of years you live, from birth to the end of your life. It’s simply the number of years you’re alive.
Healthspan, on the other hand, refers to the number of years you live in good health, free from chronic diseases, pain, or disabilities that can limit your daily life.
Your lifespan is about how long you live, while your healthspan is about how well you live. For example, if you live to 90, that’s a good lifespan. But if you spend the last 20 years of those 90 dealing with poor health, that’s a shorter healthspan. Improving your healthspan means aiming to keep healthy and active for as much of your life as possible.
How can you increase your healthspan?
Increasing your healthspan can help you age well and get the most out of life, no matter your age. Here are some practical steps you can take to keep healthy for longer:
Stay active
Regular physical activity is one of the best things you can do for your health. It doesn’t need to mean running marathons or joining a gym, gentle exercise like walking, swimming, or even gardening can keep your body strong, improve your balance and keep your heart healthy. Aim to get moving every day in a way that works for you. For more ideas about how to stay active in later life, read our blog, physical activity and exercise.
Eat a balanced diet
Eating well is key to living well. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Foods high in nutrients help your body repair itself, give you energy and protect you from illnesses that can shorten your healthspan, like heart disease or diabetes. You might find our guide on nutrition for elderly people helpful.
Look after your mind
Ageing well isn’t just about physical health. Staying mentally active and socially connected is just as important. Whether it’s reading, learning something new, or spending time with friends and family, keeping your mind active can improve your mood, memory, and overall mental health.
Get regular health checks
Seeing your GP for regular check-ups, even when you feel fine, can help you catch potential health problems early. Managing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels is an important part of staying healthy over time and preventing issues that could limit your healthspan.
Prioritise sleep
Good sleep is essential for both body and mind. It helps you heal, boosts your memory and gives you energy. Aim for seven to eight hours a night and keep a regular sleep routine if you can. You can find out more about the importance of sleep for older adults on our blog.
If you would like to know more about longevity and increasing your healthspan, you can visit the resources section of our website.
Why choose Bright Care
Bright Care can support you with elder care for your loved one. We offer hourly, overnight and live-in care options and our carers can help with a variety of domiciliary care services including shopping, preparing and cooking healthy meals and snacks.
If you would like to know more about the companionship care services we offer to those in their later years, please get in touch with our team today.
We are recruiting exceptional Care Assistants in the South East of England and Scotland. If you are interested in a rewarding career in care, please apply now.
