Live Long and Prosper

While scrolling through social media earlier this week I came across two posts I found to be both noteworthy and inspiring:

The first featured 92-year-old retired doctor Mathea Allansmith who, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, became the oldest woman ever to complete a marathon.

The second spotlighted 90-year-old postal worker Leroy Brown who, after serving in the U.S. Army for two years, has been working for the United States Postal Service in Los Angeles--since 1955.

Research first published in 2018 by the American Journal of Epidemiology reveals that nonagenarians represent the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population. In addition, data published by J.P. Morgan & Co. indicate that a 65-year-old, non-smoking female in average health has a 35% chance of living to 90 (a number that increases to 54% if she's in excellent health); a 65-year-old, non-smoking male has a 24% chance of living to 90 (which increases to 43%); and at least one member of a 65-year-old, non-smoking couple has a 50% chance of living to 90 (which increases to a whopping 73% if they're in excellent health).

All this is to say that living to 90--a feat that may have seemed out of the realm of possibility to our parents and grandparents--is now, for at least some 65-year-olds, not only possible, but probable.

So what do we do with this "longevity bonus"? How do we prepare for--and make the most of--the prospect of longer life?

First and foremost, we not only ignore all the ageist stereotypes associated with older age, we REFUTE them. As the often-cited research conducted by Yale University's Dr. Becca Levy reveals, those who feel better about aging age better and live longer.

Secondly, we take care of ourselves--physically, cognitively, emotionally. We minimize our bad habits, we stay physically and intellectually active, and we remain socially connected.

Thirdly, we try to maintain an attitude of gratitude. To paraphrase former "supermodel" Paulina Porizkova, old age is not a birthright--it's a privilege. Remaining mindful of that is important--especially the longer we live.

Of course, these three tips are applicable to adults at virtually every age and stage of life. But to me, they make particular sense for those of us who are beginning to think about what longer life might look and feel like--whether or not we're planning to run a marathon or continue working a full-time job when we're 90.