The recently released CSO data indicated that the population above the age of 55 now stands at almost 19 per cent. This represents a more than doubling of that in 1980. In actual numbers, it is a little over one quarter of a million people.

This follows the trend in the developed world where the Stanford Center on Longevity indicates that there has been a 30-year increase in life expectancy. This is due, in part, to advances in medical sciences and allied fields including nutrition and sports science. Genetics, however, may be the dominant factor in that there are those whose lifestyle does not conform to generally accepted tenets of healthy living but who nevertheless live to an advanced age.

The late fitness guru Jack Lalanne, who died at the age of 96, promoted proper eating, exercise, positive thinking and relaxation. Continuing clinical and research studies have confirmed this approach. In fact, the diet recommended for longevity and disease prevention includes one high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains and very low in animal products and refined carbohydrates, in addition to exercising.

The importance of the mind-body connection has emerged as a significant factor. Meditation and mindfulness can play a critical role in stress reduction and weight control and are thus being promoted as part of the programme on holistic and preventive medicine now being emphasised.

Despite the advances made in the science of longevity, the average life span is 80-plus years. People 90 and beyond are still the exception, for the ageing process may be delayed by lifestyle changes but cannot be stopped. So the focus now is on research to delay and reverse the aging process and to developing a range of assistive technologies.

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Reviewing longevity