DR. BRODSKIY’S GUIDE · LONGEVITY & HEALTHY AGING
Healthy Aging: More Than a Longer Life
Raya Brodskiy, MD
Living longer is one goal. Staying able to do the things that matter to you is another. That may mean walking with a friend, cooking a meal, or keeping up with your family.
What do lifespan and healthspan mean?
Lifespan is how long a person lives. Healthspan means the years spent in good health. These ideas are linked, but they are not the same.
A useful goal is to protect your health and daily skills as you grow older. No plan can promise a certain number of healthy years.
What can I do now?
Start with habits that support your whole body. Move often. Choose a mix of healthy foods. Make time for sleep and people you care about. If you smoke, getting help to quit can improve your health at any age.
Keep up with health visits, too. Ask which health checks and vaccines fit your age and health history. Problems such as high blood pressure may need care even when you feel well.
You do not need to change everything at once. Pick one step you can repeat, such as a short daily walk or a set bedtime. Build from there.
What about “antiaging” claims?
The word can mean many things. A treatment that changes how skin looks does not, by itself, show that it helps someone live longer or stay well.
When you hear a bold claim, ask: Was this tested in people? What changed? Did people feel or function better? What were the harms?
A result in mice, or a change on a blood test, may be a clue for research. It does not prove the same benefit in your life.
Where should I begin?
Choose a goal tied to daily life. “I want to climb my stairs more easily” is a useful place to start. Share it with your health care provider and make a plan that fits your needs.
Healthy aging leaves room for progress, rest, and the parts of life you enjoy.
