For years, research on longevity has crossed genes, environment and lifestyles, trying to explain why some people age while maintaining a healthy body and mind. Today a new line of studies and testimonies focuses attention on the so-called “super agers”: individuals over 80 who live with their chronological age but challenge physical and cognitive decline
Since the beginning of its history, human beings have pursued an idea as fascinating as it is unattainable: escape time. From the miraculous waters of eternal youth told in ancient myths, to medieval alchemists in search of the elixir of long life, up to modern literature, the obsession with not aging runs through the centuries as a constant. In «The Picture of Dorian Gray“, Oscar Wilde entrusts an uncomfortable truth to fiction: the desire to stay young always has a price, often paid elsewhere – in the body, in conscience, in reality.
Modern research
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Today that ancient dream is no longer expressed through magic or cursed portraits, but through laboratories, algorithms, supplements, genetic tests and technological promises. Eternal youth is no longer a myth, but a watchword. And it’s not just about visionary entrepreneurs or Silicon Valley gurus. Even symbolic figures of global power have let the idea leak out in recent years that live up to 150 years is no longer science fiction, but a plausible objective: the leaders of the United States, Russia and China have also done so, in different forms, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin e Xi Jinpingfueling an imaginary in which extreme longevity becomes a new frontier of prestige and control.
How we age
Yet, while the public debate heats up around the idea of always livethe most solid science shifts attention to a different question, perhaps more uncomfortable but more realistic: come do we grow old? In search of answers based on scientific evidence, in recent years, the so-called super agerpeople of advanced age – typically over 80 years of age – who stand out not only for longevity, but for maintaining considerable mental and physical functions compared to the average of their peers. The Washington Post reports some of the examples that hit the headlines.
In recent years, cardiologists, gerontologists and researchers at institutions such as the Scripps Research Translational Institute have studied these individuals precisely to understand how much the genetics weights with respect to the environment and the behaviors adopted throughout life. Preliminary findings suggest that although some people may have favorable predispositions, lifestyle remains the most determining factor.
Myths about longevity are growing and spreading on social media. Second Eric Topolcardiologist and researcher at the Scripps Research Translational Institute, misinformation about longevity, artificial intelligence and genetics hinders real scientific understanding and can generate false illusions among the public. Topol points out the importance of reliable, contextualized information based on solid clinical data, because only in this way can the population be educated on realistic strategies for aging well.
This is connected with the need to distinguish between strong evidence and unfounded promises, a principle that also guides the lines of research on super agers.
Diet: Mediterranean diet, varied and minimally processed
One of the pillars of the lifestyle of super agers is nutrition. Among the examples reported by the Washington Post is Marion Nestle, 89, well-known nutrition expert, has been reiterating for years the simple but fundamental principle of eating real food, minimally processed and predominantly vegetal.
Likewise, the life of Maria Branyas Morera, who died at the age of 117 in good health, offers significant testimony: in the last years of her life she had a typical Mediterranean diet, with natural yogurt, fish, olive oil and fruit. According to experts, it wasn’t just the type of diet that made the difference, but the constancy and daily simplicity of these choices.
Their lifestyle confirms the validity of scientifically consolidated nutritional concepts: balanced diets, rich in vegetables, fiber and “good” fats, with a reduction in ultra-processed foods, are associated with better metabolic performance and lower risk of chronic diseases.
Always move
If nutrition is the fuel, movement is the engine of good health. For super agers like Emma Maria Mazzenga, 92 years oldregular running – two or three times a week – represents a routine that not only keeps the body active but also strengthens psychological resilience.
And then there is Jeannie Rice, 77 years oldan amateur athlete who runs up to 70-75 miles a week (100-120 kilometers), with an aerobic capacity comparable to that of a 25-year-old person. His example demonstrates that it’s never too late to start. The research also highlighted that exercise – in particular muscular endurance and regular aerobic activity – may be one of the few interventions with concrete evidence in slowing biological aging.
All the super agers mentioned underline this the importance of social relationships. Staying connected with friends, family and community is not just a personal pleasure: several studies show that Social isolation is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
Maria Branyas Morera, for example, maintained frequent social contacts and daily interactions with those around her. Jeannie Rice not only ran, but she regularly went out with friends and participated in community activities. Sociality thus becomes a “natural vaccine” against loneliness and apathy, conditions that often accelerate the phenomena of decay in old age.
Overcoming obstacles
Another recurring element in super agers is the ability to recover after difficulties. Contrary to the common view that aging is a slow decline, many older people say they have found new impetus after negative events, such as illnesses or physical limitations.
This resilience has also been documented by studies that show how, with the right conditions – adequate sleep, social support, physical activity – many people over 60 are able to return to surprising levels of well-being, improving even after periods of compromised health.
The mental “gaze” matters as much as the body
Finally, the mental attitude emerges as an essential ingredient. Yes Liberman, 101 years oldanother example reported by the Washington Post, says that his optimism was not just an emotional habit, but a life strategy. Facing a difficult childhood, serious accidents and health problems, he has always maintained a positive outlook on the future: «If I have a cold, I think it will get better. If I’m going through a hard time, I think it will pass.”. This predisposition should not be confused with simple superficial positive thinking. It is rather a capacity recognized by the positive psychology to modulate stress, support adaptation and strengthen mental health, all factors which – mixed with healthy food, movement and relationships – contribute to a full life even in old age.
