Everyday habits may support more years of healthy life, specialist says

Matt Kaeberlein says prevention and daily habits could add healthy years for the average American, potentially up to 15.

The discussion is taking place in the United States, where interest in healthy ageing and methods promising to slow it is growing.

Healthy ageing means preserving physical, mental and social well-being, not simply avoiding illness at one moment.

Research cited in the story found that adults with five habits—healthy eating, physical activity, no tobacco, moderate alcohol use and a healthy weight—lived longer on average than those with none.

That finding is a population-level link, not a promise for any individual.

The practical focus is on regular movement, nutritious food, enough sleep, avoiding tobacco and checking blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.

The aim is to keep mobility, independence and everyday abilities for longer, rather than reach a particular age or pursue costly, uncertain treatments.

The guidance includes 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, and seven to nine hours of sleep for most adults.