Staying Healthy
Healthy living after 75
A Swedish study in BMJ identifies the secrets to living a long, healthy, and enjoyable life—after 75. Just do this: maintain a healthy weight, don't smoke or drink, cultivate a web of social connections, and enjoy regular leisure-time activities. In the study, scientists tracked the lifestyle and health status of 1,800 older Swedes for up to 18 years.
Half of the study group lived into their ninth decade. The scientists calculated the number of years of added life attributable to various behaviors. The leading lifespan-extenders were maintaining rich social networks (1.6 years added) and continuing to engage in a variety of leisure activities, including gardening, sewing, and volunteer work (up to 2.3 years). For anyone at any age, the same behaviors add up to a healthier life.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
