Longevity science has hit the mainstream—but no one agrees on the science

Great article in the Wallstreet journal on 'longevity science':

https://www.wsj.com/health/wellness/longevity-antiaging-leonard-guarente-business-f55643f4?st=ruKFQH&reflink=article_gmail_share

I get asked about this all the time, mainly from younger patients. My take mainly from talking with patients who are doing well in their 90s-100s:

1) genetics - most have longevity in their family. No one understands the science of this, although there are a lot of interesting genetic studies ongoing

2) minimal to no medications - this could be self selection in that these patients are healthy and therefore don't 'need' medications, but never do I have these patients on things other than maybe cholesterol or blood pressure medication.

3) nothing extreme - they live lives of moderation in terms of diet, exercise, alcohol use. None smoked. But none are extreme about exercise or into specific diets or food restrictions either. Very middle of the road.

4) work - all worked or were very active civically / church / volunteering etc into late in life many into their late 80s or early 90s. Never once did someone who was in their 90s or 100s tell me they 'retired early.'