Longevity is determined by five factors – check yourself

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Evaluation of these markers can be a useful guide in clinical help and help improve the predictability of longevity in the elderly.

Scientists have firmly established that our genes hold many secrets to a long and healthy life. But advances in the science of aging are also partly due to analytical tools that identify potential targets for therapy. The new model provided valuable information that could significantly improve these rates in the coming years.

The new model estimates life expectancy by paying less attention to markers of classic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and focuses on factors such as such as the ability to go to the grocery store or whether a person has smoked occasionally in their life.

The new study was designed to identify the proximate causes of longevity—factors that predict whether someone will live another two years or 10 years. When used correctly, these measures can help determine the advantages and disadvantages of screening tests and treatments for the elderly.

The analysis found that physical function was the leading factor associated with longevity. Broadly speaking, this was defined as the ability to walk for groceries or perform other household chores.

Surprisingly, the study also found that the presence of other health complications and heart disease were major predictors of longevity.

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For elderly people living two years beyond the time of blood sampling, the leading factor associated with longevity was found to have excess high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

Five years after blood sampling, younger age and cognitive function were predictors of longevity. Among the longest-lived 10-year survivors, the person's smoking history was the best predictor, with nonsmokers doing best.