Wealth
Retirement villages may be the new Blue Zones for longevity
By Lesa Macpherson.
There has been recent media interest around Blue Zones, where people have been shown to have longer lives than average.
Recently, retirement villages have been identified as having characteristics of these Blue Zones.
Places such as Okinawa and various Mediterranean sites historically have been identified as Blue Zones where people live longer than average.
However, a recent discovery proves that the statistics on which conclusions have been based are questionable, and in some cases are based on fraud (including ‘long-living’ people who are deceased but relatives are still claiming benefits).
However, putting that aside, the ideals and behaviour for longer and healthier living can certainly be adopted in many locations and lifestyles. To live long and live well, these are the vital considerations:
- social connection
- remaining active, mentally as well as physically
- a sense of purpose (volunteering, looking after grandchildren, or paid work)
- good nutrition (such as the Mediterranean diet)
- a sense of control and independence
- access to health and medical care
- financial security.
Perhaps not surprisingly, quality retirement villages also have been identified as promoting longer, more connected and healthier lives for their residents by providing these characteristics.
Retirement villages focus on community engagement and encouraging involvement in activities which keep mind and body active and healthy, in contrast to sometimes lonely lives spent in isolation.
There are many different retirement living models available to choose from, and Sunshine Coast & Brisbane Elder Law has experience in advising on all of them. Call 1800 961 622 or visit sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au or brisbaneelderlaw.com.au
