Listen to Story Sally Froelich, aged 95, is one of 600 participants in the SuperAgers Family Study by the American Federation for Aging Research. The study aims to recruit 10,000 'SuperAgers', defined as people 95 and older who are in good physical and mental health. Dr Sofiya Milman, a national expert on ageing, emphasised the importance of this study to understand what biology contributes to longevity.
The study also includes the children of the SuperAgers and the children's spouses who don't have SuperAger parents. "They are just as important as the SuperAgers because we need to draw comparisons in the frequency of the genes," Dr Milman told Healthline. Identifying these genes could lead to developing medications that mimic their effects, potentially helping more people live longer, healthier lives.
Sally Froelich, aged 95, is one of 600 participants in the SuperAgers Family Study. (Photo: Sally Froelich) While genes play a significant role in longevity, lifestyle habits are crucial for most people. 'SuperAger' Sally Froelich's lifestyle secretes besides genes for longevity are below: Eat a balanced diet: The 'SuperAger' said she eats three meals a day and doesn't overeat.
Avoid smoking and excessive drinking: Smoking increases the risk of premature death from heart disease or stroke. Moderate drinking can also shorten life expectancy. Maintain a healthy weight: Froelich's weight hasn't changed in 50 years, though she said her body has changed.
Exercise regularly: She golfs two to three times a week, exercises daily for 20 minutes, and performs 80 sit-ups each morning. Three days a week, she lifts 3.6 kg weights with her arms and 2.
3 kg weights with her legs. Use your brain: Froelich plays bridge (a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck) weekly, listens to audiobooks, and watches television. Maintain a healthy body weight.
(Photo: Getty Images) Stay socially connected: She meets friends for lunch and dinner on a weekly basis. She also sees her children once a week, and stays in touch with her grandchildren. Find joy: "Do what you want to do and things that make you happy.
Eat ice cream and delicious chocolate," she advised. Take care of yourself: Froelich emphasises looking nice and caring for one’s appearance by grooming your hair and nails. Think positively about ageing: Positive perceptions of ageing can improve quality of life.
Sally Froelich's blend of genetics and healthy lifestyle habits offers valuable insights into living a long and fulfilling life..
