Longaevitas. From 82 to 200 years: now?

The idea of longevity, or “longaevitas”, has always been present in human consciousness, with roots reaching far back into antiquity. If earlier people dreamed of immortality and sought the elixir of youth, the modern goal has become more realistic – to live up to 200 years. Although this still sounds fantastic, modern scientific achievements are bringing us closer to this goal. Remember that in the Middle Ages, the average life expectancy was only 25-35 years, in 2023 the average life expectancy in Europe reached 81.5 years, and in Asian countries even higher. In about 600 years, we have improved life expectancy by 52 years. This is impressive progress, but can we move further?

According to the theory of technological accumulation, also known as the law of accelerating returns, the pace of technological progress is growing exponentially. If we apply this concept to increasing life expectancy, we can assume that progress will accelerate. Let’s consider a theoretical scenario: If in 600 years we achieved an increase of 52 years, then the next 52 years can be achieved in a much shorter period. Let’s assume that the rate of progress doubles every 100 years. Then:

• The next 52 years (up to 134 years) can be achieved in 300 years
• Another 66 years (up to 200 years) can be achieved in the next 150 years

Thus, theoretically, the goal of 200 years could be achieved by approximately 2474. Although this is an optimistic scenario, it demonstrates the potential for the development of science and technology.

Facts

A study published in the journal Nature showed that the maximum human lifespan can reach 150 years
Scientists from the Buck Institute in California have successfully extended the life of laboratory mice by 30% using gene therapy

Investments

Based on a report from Longevity.Technology, here is key information about investments in the longevity sector in recent years:

• In 2021, a record investment volume of $7.65 billion was recorded.
• In 2022, the investment volume was $6.94 billion.
• In 2023, the total investment volume was $3.01 billion. (let’s not forget about market cyclicality, lockdown, and wars)

The largest funding from 2019 to 2023 was received by:

• Platforms for discovering longevity tools: $10.61 billion
• Neuropharmaceuticals: $6.27 billion
• Cellular reprogramming: $4.35 billion

The number of books and films on the topic of longevity, especially about cyber-humans, has significantly increased over the past 20 years. The number of research and interdisciplinary projects in the field of longevity has significantly increased over the past decade. A healthy lifestyle has become popular as people strive to live as long as possible. Medical services are improving, and biotechnology has become one of the leading areas of development.

Many scientists, celebrities, and businessmen have taken up the realization of this ambitious goal. Scientists are studying the genetic, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms of aging, looking for ways to slow down or correct this process. The idea of radical life extension evokes not only enthusiasm but also ethical and social discussions. Scientists and philosophers are discussing the possible consequences of a significant increase in life expectancy for society and the planet as a whole. And when society begins to actively discuss a certain idea, its implementation becomes only a matter of time.

Peter Singer notes: “Increasing life expectancy to 200 years can radically change our society. We need to rethink the concepts of education, career, retirement, and even family relationships.”

Aubrey de Grey, biogerontologist:“Aging is just a set of damages in the body that accumulate over time. If we can periodically repair these damages, we can live indefinitely long.”

David Sinclair, geneticist: “Aging is a disease,… and we can treat it. We are on the threshold of a new era when people will be able to live up to 120 years and more in good health.”

What can we influence in everyday life?

Longevity is the result of a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and socio-economic factors. Let’s consider the key aspects that we can influence in everyday life.

Biological factors

Mitochondria are the “power plants” of our cells. Research on these cells can be said to be a “trend”. Maintaining healthy mitochondrial function can slow down the aging process. For example, regular physical exercise and a diet rich in antioxidants can improve mitochondrial function.

Our genes can “turn on” and “turn off” depending on our lifestyle. Even short-term changes in diet can affect gene expression. For example, if a pregnant woman follows a strict diet (she gained more than planned, so she needs to go on a diet or, God forbid, starve), this can affect her child’s metabolism in the future, “programming” the body for economical energy use. “There’s not much food in the external environment, so we need to stock up or eat more” – the approximate logic of the child’s body.

Neuroplasticity – the ability of the brain to change and adapt throughout life. Learning new skills, such as playing a musical instrument or learning a new language, can stimulate neuroplasticity even in old age. Watch my video about old age on this topic.

Psychological factors

Our mood and goals directly affect the immune system. This is ordinary chemistry. Chronic stress can suppress immune function, while positive emotions can enhance it. The practice of mindfulness and meditation can improve immune response.

The ability to adapt to new situations and solve problems. Those who cope better with stress have a lower risk of developing dementia.

The ability to effectively cope with stress. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, can lower cortisol levels and improve overall health.

Socio-economic factors

Regular preventive check-ups and screenings can significantly extend life.

Strong social connections positively affect life expectancy. Studies show that people with strong social support have a 50% higher chance of longevity.

Components of longevity: a new paradigm

Based on interdisciplinary research, I propose the following model of longevity components (I don’t claim it to be the absolute truth):

• 30% – genetics and physiological processes: These are our innate abilities and predispositions. However, it’s important to understand that even genetic factors can be modified through epigenetic mechanisms.
• 30% – habits and lifestyle: Daily decisions about nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and other aspects of life have a cumulative effect on our health and longevity.
• 10% – randomness: These are factors that we cannot control or predict, such as unexpected events or environmental influences.
• 30% – worldview, awareness, self-management, and goals: This is the “software” of our body, which determines how we interpret and react to life situations.

This model emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to longevity. For example, the case of Stephen Hawking demonstrates how strong perception and purposefulness can overcome even serious physical limitations.

We can view these components above as investments in our “life portfolio”. Similar to financial investments, diversification and balance between different aspects of our lives can lead to optimal results in the long term.

Of course, people are different, and some are dominated by genetics, for example, those born with severe diseases or degraded genes. Some are dominated by habits. I tend to think that our perception plays the biggest role. Because, for example, Stephen Hawking’s terrible disease did not prevent him from becoming an outstanding scientist. And also the question arises, if he did not have such a disease, would he have become so outstanding?

Mood, goals, desires, and thirst for life often have a greater impact on longevity than healthy habits. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that a positive attitude towards aging can add up to 7.5 years of life.

I am convinced that achieving long-term significant results with less effort is the key to longevity. This approach requires more work on oneself, awareness, and organization, but it is more effective than traditional methods. The previously popular model of constant exhaustion through work followed by treatment for stress and diseases is gradually receding. The new paradigm focuses on a balanced approach to work and rest.

It’s important to “feed” on information and emotions that charge us, to be able to transform them into something that can be shared, and to receive rewards from society or our own body.


Habits for longevity: from well-known to unique

Basic habits for longevity

1. Wake up at 6:30.
2. Sleep 8 hours (for women) or 7 hours (for men).
3. Daily consume 3 servings of fruits, 3 servings of vegetables, 1 serving of berries and nuts.
4. Maintain physical activity: minimum 10,000 steps per day and 30 minutes of additional any physical activity.
5. Determine your type of nervous system and choose appropriate physical activity.
6. Regularly listen to music and practice meditation. This is a way of relaxation and concentration.
7. Drink enough water (~ 2 liters per day).
8. Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking.
9. Regularly undergo medical examinations.
10. Practice deep breathing techniques to reduce stress.
11. Keep a diary of emotions, gratitude, thoughts. Practice self-reflection.

Unique habits for longevity

These are the habits that I consider significant, affecting the “software” of our body.

1. Practice of “micro-decisions”: Make small but conscious decisions every day. This stimulates the prefrontal cortex of the brain, improving cognitive functions and self-control. Then difficult decisions will be easier and faster.
2. Social investment: Regularly “invest” in your social connections. Strong social connections positively affect oxytocin levels, which helps reduce stress and improve heart health. This is important even for introverts who have a different type of dopamine system.
3. Practice of “neuroplasticity”: Learn something new every week that goes beyond your usual activities. This stimulates brain neuroplasticity, which can slow down cognitive aging. It’s also useful to speed up, for example, the audiobook you’re listening to or podcasts. This trains faster information perception.
4. Body gratitude ritual: Every evening, thank each part of your body for its work during the day. This practice increases body awareness and promotes better health care. If it sounds strange, try this practice every day for 6 months and write down your results. You will definitely be satisfied with your intuition.
5. “Social diversity”: Regularly communicate with people of different ages and social groups. This stimulates the brain and broadens the worldview. Be sure to exchange information about the world that you have. Interesting facts, stories. This is important.
6. “Role-playing game”: Once a month, try yourself in a new role. This maintains brain neuroplasticity. Do a photo session as some celebrity, be a child for a few hours, etc.
7. Practice of “conscious consumption”: Before each purchase, ask yourself about its necessity. This reduces the level of consumer stress and promotes a more meaningful life. It’s also worth studying what conscious consumption actually is. It’s not about rejecting the benefits of civilization, sorting garbage, and minimalism. This is a much broader and deeper topic.
8. “Creative five minutes”: Dedicate 5 minutes every day to any creative activity. This stimulates creativity and reduces stress (at least 5).
9. Studying familiar space: Regularly pay attention to details of your surroundings that you haven’t noticed before. What new thing did you notice in your room today? Focus, you will find something.
10. Balance and coordination exercises: Practice balance on a fitball, yoga, pilates, tai chi, walking on uneven surfaces, and exercises with closed eyes. These practices stimulate the nervous system and improve coordination, and with it your abilities.

Remember that 2/3 of our neurons are involved in body motor skills. Therefore, by learning at least one new movement every week, you significantly develop your brain and perception abilities. These habits, although they seem simple, have a powerful cumulative effect on our health and longevity.

And what habits do you follow? Perhaps you have your own unique practices for maintaining health and longevity?

Can money buy additional years of life?

The difference in life expectancy between the richest and poorest groups of the US population reaches 15 years for men and 10 years for women.

Interesting results were also obtained in China. The study showed that higher financial status, both objective and subjective, is associated with a lower risk of mortality among older people.

Financial status significantly affects the decision-making process. People with lower incomes are often forced to focus on short-term decisions related to survival. In contrast, wealthier people have the opportunity to plan for the long term, which positively affects their health and life expectancy.

Longevity is not just a biological phenomenon, but the result of a complex interaction of neurobiological, psychological, and economic factors. As a novice scientist in the field of behavioral economics and neuroeconomics, I believe that achieving long-term significant results with less effort is the key to longevity. This approach requires more work on oneself, awareness, organization, but it is more effective than other options and is the most profitable. And this approach works with both small systems (person) and large ones (state, society).