What the heck is SuperAging?

Brace yourselves as we prepare to spill the piping-hot tea on the captivating universe of SuperAging! Get ready to unravel the well-guarded secrets of those incredible superagers in their 70s and 80s. The buzz is real, and we're about to dive into the mysteries that have everyone on the edge of their seats!

May you have heard the term "SuperAging", but what the heck is it?

The term refers to people in their 70s and 80s who have the mental or physical capability of their decades-younger counterparts. Harvard Health is all over it, breaking down the secrets of these super agers. (Check it out here: Harvard Health Super Agers)

The SuperAging Buzz:
So, what's all the buzz about SuperAging? Imagine having the mental and physical prowess of someone decades younger in your 70s and 80s! Harvard Health spills the beans on these extraordinary superagers, and it's not just a concept; it's an invitation to flip the script on aging. We're all about it! Who wouldn't want to be part of a community where wrinkles are badges of wisdom and every birthday is a celebration of newfound strength?

Characteristics of SuperAgers:

1. Active Lifestyle Adventure: SuperAgers are all about keeping that body movin'! Regular physical activity, just twice a week, is the secret sauce linked to lower chances of cognitive decline. It's not just about exercise; it's about embracing life with open arms.

2. Mental Gymnastic: SuperAgers thrive on mental challenges, whether it's puzzles, reading, or diving into the unknown. It's the key to maintaining cognitive vitality and keeping those brain cells doing the cha-cha!

3. Social Connection Magic: Strong social bonds are the heartbeat of SuperAgers. Dr. Lindquist's research unveils a brain region bustling with von Economo neurons, pointing to a link between social connections and cognitive health. So, let's keep those social butterflies fluttering!

4. Moderation Celebration: Here's the surprise—SuperAgers span a spectrum of lifestyle choices, from fitness enthusiasts to those who savor a nightly treat. The key? Moderation. It's about finding balance, enjoying life without overindulging.

The Secret Sauce Unveiled:
SuperAgers outshine in memory, physical condition, speed, and mental health, regardless of Alzheimer's biomarkers. Dr. Lisa Barrett from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, speculates that super-agers may share a willingness to endure discomfort to master a new skill, like playing a musical instrument or speaking a new language. Super-agers keep moving out of their comfort zones to gain new areas of expertise.

Midlifer's Listen Up:
Dr. Jo Robertson, Australian Dementia Network at the University of Melbourne, encourages those in their 30s and 40s to amplify their well-being. 

“The take-home point here for people in midlife is that they need to be enthusiastically modifying lifestyle factors known to have an impact — increasing physical fitness, reducing cardiovascular risk, optimizing mental health and getting appropriate care for any mood disorders — to improve their long-term brain health.”

You currently hold the power to sculpt long-term brain health through enthusiastic lifestyle modifications. By embracing increased physical fitness, minimizing cardiovascular risks, nurturing mental health, and seeking care for mood disorders, you're not just improving your present but laying the groundwork for a future filled with vitality and cognitive resilience.

Join the SuperAging Movement:
Are you over 80 and intrigued by SuperAging? Northwestern University welcomes you to join their SuperAging Research Program. It's a call to embark on a journey towards enduring health and unwavering resilience. Together, let's redefine aging and celebrate the joy of every age!