People are living longer than ever—but not necessarily in good health.
This is the healthspan-lifespan gap, or the difference between healthy years and total years lived. And research shows the gap is increasing.
Globally, people spent an average of 9.6 years of their lives plagued by disease in 2019, according to a 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open. That’s up 13%—from 8.5 years—in 2000.
What if it didn’t have to be that way?
According to Health’s Chief Medical Officer Sohaib Imitaz, MD, MPH, a board-certified lifestyle medicine doctor, there’s been a growing interest among companies and healthcare providers in helping people live longer, healthier lives.
“Often the medical system focuses on sick care. I think the model needs to change to personalized, proactive, and preventative care,” said Imitaz.
That change may be coming as science works to pinpoint longevity specifics, like exactly when our bodies age the most and what the healthiest hundred-year-olds eat. But in the meantime, there are many simple, research-proven strategies to help you live healthily for longer.
“Simple tips include minimizing processed food and increasing fiber, doing high-intensity training and resistance exercise, getting adequate sleep, and having healthy relationships,” said Imitaz.
Still not sure where to start? Here’s everything you need to know about the newest longevity research—from fitness tests for healthy aging, to what brain games can really do for long-term health, to quick nutrition tips (some that won’t cost you a dime).
