Longevity expert Dr. Peter Attia reveals why most people experience a sharp decline in their 70s, but he argues that this decline doesn’t have to be inevitable. During an interview with 60 Minutes, Attia explained that aging successfully requires a multifaceted approach that includes both physical and mental health practices. He believes that maintaining a high level of fitness, especially as people age, is crucial for healthy aging. The concept of ‘healthspan’—the period of life when one is free from age-related maladies—was discussed by Dr. Douglas E. Vaughan, who emphasized the importance of lifestyle choices like avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise to extend this period of well-being.
Attia’s recommendations for maintaining healthspan include following an athlete-like regimen, which involves not only regular exercise but also tracking indicators such as VO₂ max, a measure that he claims is more predictive of one’s lifespan than traditional blood tests. He advocates for a combination of steady-state cardio workouts and high-intensity intervals to enhance cardiovascular fitness and muscle mass. Additionally, Attia recommends advanced medical monitoring methods such as DEXA scans and full-body MRIs for early detection of conditions like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. He also supports regular screening for the APOE gene, which is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.
Attia underscores the importance of social and emotional health, noting that relationships and a supportive community significantly impact longevity and well-being. He credits his long-term relationship as a key factor in his own successful aging. In his view, while the inevitable decline of the final decade of life is expected, it’s important to maximize its quality through a balanced and proactive approach to health. Dr. Attia’s insights offer a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to not only live longer but also to maintain a high quality of life in their later years.