In a culture where aging may have many negative connotations, individuals known as superagers defy conventional wisdom. These people maintain cognitive sharpness, physical health and emotional well-being well into their 70s, 80s and even 90s. Researchers have coined the term “superagers” to refer to this group. The most commonly asked question about them is: What traits do these individuals share that allow them to remain so vibrant as they age?
Superagers are not only defined by their ability to retain memory and mental acuity but also by their resilience, adaptability and zest for life. While there’s no single secret formula for becoming a superager, studies have identified several key traits and lifestyle factors.
What do many of these superagers have in common? While good genetics may play a part, there’s more to it than that. Here’s a quick overview of their shared traits:
A Strong Sense of Purpose
One of the most significant traits of superagers is their deep sense of purpose. Whether they are pursuing a passion, contributing to the community, or maintaining close family relationships, superagers have a reason to get out of bed every day. This sense of purpose has been linked to better mental health and longevity. Research has shown that individuals who feel they have a meaningful role in life tend to experience lower levels of stress, better cognitive function and improved emotional well-being.
Regular Physical Activity
Superagers understand the importance of staying physically active. Regular exercise is a cornerstone of aging well, and studies show that the most successful agers prioritize their physical health. Physical activity has a profound impact on the brain, improving blood flow, reducing inflammation and enhancing neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. Whether they walk, swim, practice yoga or do more intense workouts, superagers keep moving throughout their lives, which helps preserve both physical and cognitive function.
Healthy Social Connections
Social engagement is another hallmark of superagers. Fostering meaningful relationships with family, friends and communities is essential for long-term health and happiness. Superagers tend to have a strong social network that provides them with emotional support, intellectual stimulation and a sense of belonging. Socializing and maintaining these connections have been shown to reduce the risk of depression, enhance cognitive performance and extend life expectancy.
A Lifelong Passion for Learning
Superagers are often intellectually curious, continuing to challenge their minds well into their senior years. They engage in lifelong learning, whether it’s through reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills or exploring new ideas. Mental stimulation helps protect the brain from age-related decline by enhancing cognitive function and promoting brain health. Superagers tend to embrace new technologies, pursue creative activities and keep their brains active in ways that delay the onset of cognitive issues like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Maintaining a Well-Balanced Diet
A healthy, balanced diet plays an essential role in maintaining vitality. Superagers tend to focus on eating nutrient-rich foods that boost brain and body health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats, like the Mediterranean diet, is generally believed to promote healthy aging. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins are all key to cognitive health, and superagers make dietary choices that support brain function.
Senior Living Communities Encourage Healthy Lifestyles
Those who choose to live in a senior community have easy access to all the tools and programs that make up a healthy lifestyle, from daily life enrichment activities for the mind and body to well-balanced meals and more. Life in a senior community is also conducive to nurturing strong social connections with neighbors always nearby and if needed, various levels of assistance in daily living. If you’ve been considering a community lifestyle, call or visit an ASC location near you to find out more.
