Experts Debate How Much Centenarians' Positive Attitudes Really Impact Longevity

Centenarians often credit longevity to positive attitude and lifestyle, but experts caution that their advice may not apply to others.
CEO Petr Sramek says centenarians may have uncommon longevity genes, so their lifestyle choices cannot guide others.
Longevity genes are rare, only present in about 2% of the population per Sramek.
Professor David Watson says being positive is overrated - conscientiousness links more to long life.
Experts agree the formula for longevity is not found in any single centenarian's story.

cnbc.com

Relevant topic timeline:

8/24/2023

Longevity is challenging people to reimagine their later years. One age cohort is 'carrying the most stress and burden,' research finds

Individuals between the ages of 40 and 59, known as Gen X and younger baby boomers, experience the most stress and struggle with managing the concept of longevity, making it crucial for them to start planning for their future and seek guidance from financial advisors, according to research from Transamerica and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology AgeLab.

9/22/2023

5 Habits of Centenarians for a Long, Healthy Life

Some Americans who live to be 100 or older attribute their longevity to lifestyle factors such as regular exercise, eating fresh, home-cooked meals, staying adventurous, doing activities they love, staying resilient in the face of setbacks, and maintaining a positive mindset, according to interviews conducted by TODAY.com.