The Science of Longevity: Understanding Lifespan, Ageing, and Vitality

The Latin word “longaevus,” which signifies long-lived, is the origin of the English word longevity. It can be referred to as the “ability to live a long life while maintaining good physical and mental health” . Living a long life is more than merely becoming older when it comes to human health. Instead, it encourages living the long years without cognitive decline, major chronic illnesses, or any form of disabilities. 

Until recent research showed that longevity is a multifaceted outcome influenced by behavioural, environmental, technological, and social factors, it was mostly regarded to be a product of our genetic environment. An estimated 20–30% of lifetime variability is related to genetics; the remaining part is determined by modifiable factors such as social life, physical activity, food and sleep hygiene, and accessibility to healthcare (Passarino et al. 2016). 

Lifespan vs. Longevity: What’s the Difference? 

Despite their common interchangeable characteristics, the terms “lifespan” and “longevity” have different meanings. A person’s (or an organism’s) lifespan is the entire duration of time they are physiologically able to continue living. Conversely, longevity emphasises living a life that goes significantly beyond an ordinary lifetime, with the emphasis on health and vitality during those years. 

Factors influencing longevity 

Allehaibi et al.’s 2025 cross-sectional study found that the factors that participants considered had the most effect on longevity included the following: 

Lifestyle choices (84.3%) and mental health (75.2%) were the most important determinants, followed by heredity (48.4%), surroundings (36.2%), spiritual or religious activities (29.1%), and medical advances (25.1%). In short it can be said that our genes may load the gun, but our lifestyle pulls the trigger. 

Rethinking what it means to age successfully 

Researchers and people in general have both been curious about the idea of “successful ageing.” Three key elements were highlighted in the well-known model of successful ageing created by Rowe and Kahn (1997): 

1. the absence of disabilities and illnesses, and the absence of risk factors that expose one to these; 
2. the maintenance of physiological and cognitive capacities that promote wellbeing; and
3. social interaction and participation in productive activities. 

Research on ageing has long been dominated by this concept. 

Identifying what constitutes successful ageing is still quite challenging. The majority of studies have placed a strong emphasis on physical health, although some aim for a more comprehensive, holistic perspective. According to Montross and colleagues (2006), psychological characteristics like as resilience, self-reliance, a feeling of mastery, and continuous personal development are becoming more and more acknowledged as crucial elements. Another significant factor that affects longevity and well-being is social connectivity (Cherry et al., 2011). 

Additionally crucial are cognitive and physical functioning, as their loss would have detrimental effects on one’s ability to live independently (Berkman et al., 1993). According to Depp et al. (2010), the most prevalent perspective views effective ageing as a multifaceted construct, with physical health factors having been examined more frequently than psychological factors like emotion and cognition. 

The way elderly people adjust to the obstacles of later life—a dynamic interrelationship between health, autonomy, and fulfilment across a range of experiences—may be more important for healthy ageing as compared to achieving a strict criteria, as suggested by various studies (von Faber et al., 2001; Butt & Beiser, 1987). 

Pillars of Longevity 

1. Staying Active: Strength, mobility, and mental well-being are all maintained by regular exercise. A small amount of exercise can have a significant impact. 
2. Staying Connected: Longevity and satisfaction are increased by strong relationships. 
3. Eating Whole meals: People who live in “Blue Zones,” which are areas known for their exceptionally long lifespans, tend to eat a lot of plant-based, minimally processed meals and little red meat. 
4. Resting Well: The foundation of a healthy existence is a regular sleep schedule. Limiting screen time in the evening, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, and unwinding with tranquil activities like reading or meditation are all essential for promoting healthy sleep. 
5. Stress Management: Routine and mindfulness help lower chronic stress, which accelerates ageing. 
6. Discovering life’s meaning: Having a purpose in life is not just a positive feeling; it is also a proven indicator of longevity. People who find purpose in their daily lives—whether it is through employment, creative endeavours, providing care, or volunteer work—tend to live longer and express higher levels of life satisfaction.

FAQS 

1. What distinguishes lifespan from longevity? 

In simple terms, lifespan is about the quantity of years, and longevity focuses on the quality of those years. Lifespan is the total number of years an individual is biologically capable of living— essentially, the length of life. Longevity, on the other hand, highlights not just living longer, but living well. It refers to an extended life marked by good health, mental clarity, and functional independence. 

2. Is Genetics solely responsible for Longevity? 

Genes could just be one piece of the longevity puzzle. 

According to a recent study done in Saudi Arabia (Allehaibi et al., 2025), lifestyle choices (84.3%) and mental health (75.2%) were considered far more influential than heredity, which accounted for only 48.4%. This indicates that while genetics do play a role, they are not solely responsible for determining how long we live. Instead, a combination of modifiable factors—like how we live, think, and connect with others—has a much greater impact on our chances of living a long and healthy life. 

3. How can longevity be improved? 

Longevity can be improved by integrating the six research-based pillars of longevity into one’s life. 

• Stay Active: Regular movement keeps your body and mind in shape.
• Build Relationships: Strong social ties boost health and happiness. 
• Eat Whole Foods: Focus on plant-based, minimally processed meals.
• Prioritise Sleep: Stick to a consistent, calming sleep routine. 
• Manage Stress: Use mindfulness and routine to reduce daily stress.
• Find Purpose: A sense of meaning in life supports long-term well-being.