Three Key Habits for Longevity Based on Research on 1,000 Centenarians
Ben Meyers and Fabrizio Villatoro are members of LongeviQuest, an organization that verifies the ages of the world’s longest-living individuals. Through their work, Meyers, the CEO, has had the opportunity to meet and study 1,000 people over the age of 100. Villatoro, the President of LongeviQuest for Latin America, has also personally verified the ages of centenarians.
In an interview with Insider, the two longevity researchers revealed surprising insights into the habits and mindsets that help these individuals achieve remarkable lifespans. According to Meyers and Villatoro, three key habits and thought patterns contribute to extreme longevity.
1. Not Stressing Over Things Beyond Their Control
“Many centenarians focus on what they can control and don’t stress over things beyond their reach,” Meyers explained.
They also do not tend to worry about their own longevity. “I have never met a centenarian who set out to live that long. They are all surprised by their age. They simply enjoy their lives and feel happy to still be with their loved ones,” he added.
Instead of worrying about the uncontrollable, they prioritize what truly matters, such as maintaining good relationships. Villatoro noted that most centenarians in Latin America are deeply family-oriented and live relatively stress-free lives.
Scientific research has long shown that chronic stress contributes to strokes and reduced lifespan. Stress, while a natural defense mechanism, becomes harmful when prolonged. It can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, and even contribute to cancer.
2. Working Continuously Throughout Life
Balancing work and life seems to be beneficial for longevity. In Sardinia, Italy—a renowned “longevity island”—people prioritize family over careers. However, this doesn’t mean centenarians don’t work hard or enjoy life.
According to Villatoro and Meyers, many centenarians in Latin America spent most of their lives engaged in physically demanding labor. While they may transition to less strenuous work as they age, “some continue working even beyond 100 years old.”
3. Staying Busy and Mentally Active
Centenarians never stop staying engaged, even in old age. Keeping both the body and mind active is crucial for longevity. Group exercises are particularly beneficial as they combine physical activity with social interaction.
Reading, solving puzzles, attending lectures, or taking educational courses help maintain cognitive function.
“Even if they are no longer working at 100, they find ways to fill their days—whether through socializing, reading newspapers, or engaging in various activities. Even when their physical condition declines, they still find ways to keep their minds stimulated,” Villatoro observed.
