Tranquility, calm, sunshine, fresh, local food, etc. Is there a secret recipe for rejuvenation? This question is being asked in specific states known as home to many centenarians. These cheerful elderly people readily share their secrets to a long and healthy life. So where should you live and what should you do for a long and healthy life?
The best countries for healthy living
Okinawa has become a global sensation. According to the United Nations (UN), this small Japanese island boasts the highest life expectancy worldwide, averaging 84.26 years. Switzerland ranks second with an average of 83.45 years, closely followed by South Korea at 83.30. Life expectancy is above 80 in 28 other countries, including Spain, Singapore, Canada, France, Costa Rica, Germany, the Netherlands, and Kuwait. Next is Chile, with a life expectancy of 80.74 years, still higher than the UN's estimated world average of 73 years.
On average, women live five years longer than men. In France, women have an average life expectancy of 85.4 years, compared with 79.3 years for men (source: INSEE 2022). In Japan, women's average life expectancy is 87.74 years, compared to 81.64 years for men, as reported by the Japanese Ministry of Health on July 30, 2021, using 2020 data.
Should you move to a blue zone for a long and healthy life?
Living a long life is great, but living a long and healthy life is even better. Since the 2000s, demographer Michel Poulain and gerontologist Gianni have been globe-trotting in search of the healthiest and strongest elderly people. They point out "blue zones" (marked initially in blue on maps by the demographer) and study these populations. The island of Okinawa is recognized as a blue zone alongside three other areas: Sardinia in Italy, the initial blue zone identified, the Nicoya peninsula in Costa Rica, and the island of Icaria in Greece.
Nevertheless, there is a lack of consensus within the scientific community regarding these blue zones. Loma Linda in California is being considered as the potential fifth blue zone, but opinions on this matter differ. The demographer points out that a blue zone may not remain blue indefinitely, as numerous factors, including diet, come into play. The researcher also highlights that healthy older people are not actively pursuing a longevity record; rather, their lifestyle significantly contributes to their good health.
What should we make of variations in life expectancy within the same country? This question was raised by Japan's Ministry of Health. While the spotlight may be on Okinawa, other regions in Japan are setting new longevity records. According to the Ministry's data for 2020, Asao emerges as a favorable place to live. In this district of Kawasaki, a city near Tokyo, women have an average life expectancy of 89.2 years, and men 84 years. On the other hand, Nishinari, a district in Osaka, has a considerably shorter life expectancy: 84.9 years for women and only 73.2 years for men. The latest figures from the Ministry reveal a decline in life expectancy for the second consecutive year, affecting both women and men, with Covid-19 being the primary reason.
Living a long, healthy life: expatriate secrets
While some scientists may aspire for immortality, others are keener on having a healthy life. For them, acknowledging the natural course of life is crucial to aging in good health while still pursuing and achieving their goals.
Eat local and fresh
For healthy senior expats, a typical day involves going to the market, exploring local producers, savoring the scents, feeling the textures, cooking, and indulging in the taste of fresh ingredients. This routine isn't a novel invention. The secret has been leaked for years but has often been overshadowed by the fast-food and mass-produced cooking industry. Senior expats have observed and adopted the practices of the locals, drawing valuable tips for healthy aging.
Being well surrounded
It's a well-known fact that isolation can have a negative impact on one's morale. As social beings, humans are inherently designed to live in communities. Even the most introverted seniors require their share of human interaction. The consensus among older individuals is clear: maintaining a social life contributes significantly to their well-being. Whether it's with family, friends, neighbors, or local residents, these everyday interactions have a positive effect on both morale and overall health.
Playing sports
We're not asking you to register for the next marathon (though there are remarkable super-senior marathon runners out there), but simply encouraging you to move as much as your health allows. There are numerous exercises adapted to the pathologies you may have. Physical activity is also a key factor in promoting a longer and healthier life. Retired expatriates can make the most of their new surroundings by embarking on adventures, whether it's an extended hike or a daily walk to the local shop. The crucial point is to stay active.
Challenge yourself
Making a life-changing move, altering habits, and embracing a new country at 70, 80, or beyond is a formidable challenge. The adventure doesn't end upon reaching the destination; it's another way of keeping yourself in action. Many younger individuals mistakenly believe that dreams, passions, and challenges diminish with age, leaving seniors with nothing but memories. However, happy older people often share stories of their diverse daily challenges, such as learning a new language, adopting a new sport or activity, and exploring different countries. Growing old doesn't equate to abandoning dreams. On the contrary, continually embracing challenges maintains a positive dynamic for both the body and mind.
Being open
Some retired expatriates prefer a more secluded lifestyle. They've settled in an expat-dominated neighborhood, ideally one filled with people from their own nationality, and rarely venture outside this comfort zone. They essentially recreate a little "home" abroad. However, this choice comes with its drawbacks, as interactions with locals can be rare. It's also difficult to make progress in the host country's language and culture; it becomes challenging without regular contact with the locals. While the initial challenge of settling abroad may have been overcome, it's now essential to step out of this comfort zone and engage with locals and other foreigners. Joining a local association can be a helpful first step in breaking the ice.
Accepting aging
Happy retirees don't chase eternal youth, a concept that doesn't exist anyway. They've lived countless lives in one, filled with joys, tumults, and dramas. Experiencing the loss of friends and loved ones is more probable for them because aging in good health also involves witnessing others go before you. It's a life of resilience that we must learn to navigate. While looking forward to new activities, healthy seniors understand the art of savoring the present moment.
Furnishing your home
Taking care of your health also involves selecting and adapting a suitable living space. Seniors planning to live abroad should gather as much information as possible about their prospective residence and neighborhood. Should it be an apartment or a house? Single-story or two-story? Ideally, it's recommended to visit the future neighborhood before making a decision, seeking professional assistance if necessary. If renovations are required, some host countries may offer support. For example, France provides a conditional tax credit for home improvements carried out for seniors, and this tax credit will be reintroduced in 2024 in a revised form. Home renovations can also be more modest, such as installing ergonomic handles, a stool for reaching elevated furniture, or thick strings for opening cupboards. Overall, it enables seniors to maintain independence for a longer period.
Following the locals
The last piece of advice is evident: when you've just arrived in your host country, there's often a temptation to rush things. However, it's crucial to allow yourself time to observe. Connect with healthy senior citizens, observe their lifestyle, and learn from them to fully embrace your new life abroad.
