The SuperAgers Family Study, conducted by the American Federation for Aging Research, aims to discover the secrets to a long life by studying people aged 95 and older, such as Sally Froelich, and their families.
**In Short:**
– **95-Year-Old Sally Froelich Shares Longevity Secrets**: Sally Froelich, a 95-year-old ‘SuperAger,’ reveals nine secrets to a long life.
– **Participant in Aging Research Study**: She is part of the SuperAgers Family Study conducted by the American Federation for Aging Research.
– **Genes and Lifestyle Factors**: While genetics are important, lifestyle habits also play a crucial role in longevity.
– **Study Goals**: The study aims to recruit 10,000 ‘SuperAgers,’ individuals aged 95 and older who are in good physical and mental health.
– **Expert Endorsement**: Dr. Sofiya Milman, a national expert on aging, highlights the study’s significance in understanding the biological factors contributing to longevity.
The study also includes the children of SuperAgers and their spouses, who do not have SuperAger parents.
Dr. Milman explained to Healthline that these individuals are crucial for comparison, as analyzing the frequency of genes between SuperAgers and their relatives can provide valuable insights.
Identifying these genes may lead to the development of medications that replicate their effects, potentially helping more people live longer and healthier lives.
**’SuperAger’ Sally Froelich’s Secrets to Longevity Beyond Genetics:**
– **Eat a Balanced Diet**: Froelich eats three meals a day and avoids overeating.
– **Avoid Smoking and Excessive Drinking**: She stays away from smoking and drinks alcohol in moderation to reduce risks of heart disease and stroke.
– **Maintain a Healthy Weight**: Her weight has remained stable for 50 years, though she acknowledges changes in her body.
– **Exercise Regularly**: She golfs two to three times a week, exercises daily for 20 minutes, performs 80 sit-ups each morning, and lifts light weights three times a week.
– **Keep Mentally Active**: Froelich plays bridge weekly, listens to audiobooks, and watches television to keep her mind engage
– **Stay Socially Connected**: She regularly meets friends for lunch and dinner, sees her children weekly, and stays in touch with her grandchildren.
– **Find Joy**: Froelich advises doing things that make you happy, such as enjoying ice cream and chocolate.
– **Take Care of Yourself**: She emphasizes the importance of grooming and maintaining a well-kept appearance.
– **Think Positively About Aging**: Maintaining a positive outlook on aging can enhance quality of life.
Sally Froelich’s combination of genetics and healthy lifestyle practices provides valuable insights into achieving a long and fulfilling life.
