How to prepare for a longer, healthier life | Tiffany Vora | TEDxGateway

Summary

The speaker discusses the possibility of humans living to 140 years old due to advances in science and public health, which have already doubled the average lifespan. They explore the implications of this longevity revolution on society and individuals, emphasizing the need for lifelong learning and societal adaptations. The talk concludes with a call to embrace a longevity mindset to live lives of purpose and contribute to solving global challenges.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The average human lifespan has doubled in the last century due to advances in public health and medical care.
• 🧬 Scientific research is uncovering specific molecular and cellular processes that cause aging, known as the 'Hallmarks of aging'.
• 🔬 There is potential to slow, stop, or even reverse biological aging by understanding aging at the molecular and cellular level.
• 🌐 Globally, strategies are being explored to impact aging, including diet, exercise, meditation, sleep, pharmaceuticals, and genetic treatments.
• 🚫 It is expected to take years to decades to determine which longevity strategies will be effective for humans.
• 🛠 Aging more slowly could delay the onset of major diseases, which are largely diseases of aging.
• 💼 A longevity revolution will require significant changes in how we work, including potentially working much longer careers.
• 🏫 Lifelong learning will be crucial in a future where people live much longer, requiring continuous adaptation and education.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Communities may need to be redesigned to support multigenerational living and new family dynamics.
• 🌱 The longevity revolution brings both challenges and opportunities, including the need for sustainability and ecological responsibility.
• 🌟 Embracing a longevity mindset can empower us to live meaningful and purposeful lives, contributing to solutions for global challenges.

Q & A

What is the current global average lifespan?

The current global average lifespan is around 70 years old.

What is the 'Longevity Revolution' mentioned in the script?

The 'Longevity Revolution' refers to the potential for humans to live significantly longer lives due to advances in science, technology, and public health, possibly leading to an average lifespan of over 120 years.

What are the 'Hallmarks of aging'?

The 'Hallmarks of aging' are 12 major categories that describe how aging manifests in our bodies at the molecular and cellular level, which may not only be results of aging but also potential causes of aging.

How does the script suggest we might be able to slow, stop, or reverse biological aging?

By understanding the molecular and cellular processes of aging, it is suggested that we might be able to slow, stop, or even reverse biological aging through scientific research and interventions.

What strategies are being explored to impact human aging?

Strategies being explored include diet, exercise, meditation, sleep, classic drugs and pharmaceuticals, and cutting-edge infusions and genetic treatments.

Why is it important to delay the onset of diseases like cancer and diabetes?

Delaying the onset of diseases can increase the number of healthy years in a person's life, as many of the world's leading killers are diseases associated with aging.

What are some of the societal changes that might be necessary to adapt to a longevity future?

Societal changes might include new city plans, family dynamics, work structures, lifelong learning opportunities, and healthcare systems to accommodate multigenerational living and longer working careers.

How might the concept of retirement change in a world where people live to be 120 years old?

The concept of retirement might change significantly, potentially requiring people to work longer, with careers lasting 80 to 100 years, and the need for lifelong learning and adaptation to new roles and responsibilities.

What role does the mindset play in preparing for a longevity future?

The mindset is crucial in preparing for a longevity future, as it influences how individuals make decisions, plan for the long term, and adapt to new challenges and opportunities that come with living longer.

Why is it important to consider the implications of climate change in the context of a longevity future?

Considering the implications of climate change is important because those living longer will experience the direct consequences of environmental degradation, and it is a moral responsibility to ensure a sustainable planet for future generations.

What is the significance of adopting a longevity mindset today?

Adopting a longevity mindset today can empower individuals to live meaningful and purposeful lives, ask bold questions, and contribute to solutions for the world's biggest challenges, regardless of whether the longevity revolution fully materializes.