Healthy lungs become increasingly valuable as we age.
Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can make breathing difficult and limit a person’s ability to remain physically active.
One of the most important things people can do for their lung health is avoid smoking. Reducing exposure to harmful pollutants can also help protect respiratory health.
The Bigger Picture: It’s Not Just About Reaching 100
The idea that avoiding five diseases automatically means you’re likely to live to 100 is too strong.
There isn’t a simple medical checklist that can predict exactly how long an individual will live.
Instead, researchers often distinguish between lifespan and healthspan.
Lifespan refers to how long you live.
Healthspan refers to how long you remain relatively healthy, active and independent.
And for many people, increasing healthspan may be just as important as adding years to their lives.
5 Habits That Can Support Healthy Aging
There is no magic formula for reaching 100, but several habits are consistently associated with better health as people age.
Stay Active
Regular movement helps maintain muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, balance and mobility. The Bored Daddy article cites the commonly recommended target of at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week for adults.
You don’t necessarily need an intense workout. Walking, cycling, swimming, gardening and other activities can all contribute to an active lifestyle.
