Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Targeted strength exercises, simple one‑leg stands, and practices like tai chi can improve balance and stability so walking feels steadier.

A variety of disparate factors can speed up people’s biological aging, which describes how well their body functions (in comparison to chronological aging). Drivers of aging include ultraviolet light, stress, smoking, obesity, radiation, and loneliness and social isolation.

Older adults need a strong core to stay active and healthy. While the core comprises many muscles, the four main ones lie within the abdomen: the rectus abdominis in the front; the external and internal obliques on the sides; and the deep, flat transversus abdominis wrapping your midsection. Several core exercises work many of these muscles, but the dead bug exercise can engage all of them and is safe for older adults, as it can be modified for any age or limitations. The dead bug is done by lying on the back and moving the limbs up and down to imitate a dying insect.

Full-body MRI scans are marketed as a way to detect hidden cancers and other health conditions before symptoms appear. But these elective scans aren’t as precise as medically recommended MRIs and may reveal harmless abnormalities that lead to unnecessary follow-up tests.

It’s possible for people of any age to contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs are sometimes symptom-free, making them easy to miss, pass along, and ignore.

Links between restless legs and iron, caffeine, and alcohol are emerging. See which dietary tweaks might be worth trying.

A 2026 study suggested that getting a high-dose flu shot may reduce older adults’ risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared with a standard-dose flu shot.

A 2026 study suggested that women who consistently stay active throughout middle age have a significantly lower risk of dying early than peers who are inactive.

Research hints heavy soda consumption may weaken bones, especially in women. See what studies show, why the link is unclear, and steps you can take to protect bone health.

Harvard fitness expert Michele Stanten takes you through a simple exercise to tighten your abs, strengthen your back, and improve your balance.