Sally Frohlich, 95, is one of 600 participants in the SuperAgers Family Study conducted by the American Federation for Aging Research.

The study aims to include 10,000 ‘superagers’, defined as people aged 95 years and above who are in good physical and mental health.

Dr. Sophia Millman, a national expert on aging, emphasized the importance of this study in understanding how biology contributes to longevity.

The study also included children of superagers and spouses of children whose parents are not superagers.

“They are just as important as superagers, because we need to compare the frequency of genes,” Dr. Milman told Healthline.

Identifying these genes could lead to the development of drugs that would mimic their effects, potentially helping more people live longer and healthier lives.

While genes play an important role in longevity, lifestyle habits are just as important for most people. Below are lifestyle tips from ‘superager’ Sally Frohlich that show longevity is something beyond genes:

eat a balanced diet: The ‘superager’ revealed she eats three times a day and doesn’t overeat.

Avoid smoking and excessive drinking: Smoking increases the risk of premature death from heart disease or stroke. Drinking alcohol in moderate amounts can also reduce life expectancy.

Maintain a healthy weight: Frolich’s weight hasn’t changed in 50 years, though he said his body has changed.

Exercise regularly: She plays golf two to three times a week, exercises for 20 minutes daily and does 80 sit-ups every morning. Three days a week, she lifts 3.6 kg of weights with her arms and 2.3 kg with her legs.

Use your brain: Frolich plays bridge (a trick-taking card game played using a deck of 52 cards) weekly, listens to audiobooks, and watches television.

Stay socially connected: She meets friends for lunch and dinner every week. She also sees her children once a week and stays in touch with her grandchildren.

Have fun: “Do what you want to do and do what makes you happy. Eat ice cream and delicious chocolate,” he advised.

Take care of yourself: Frölich emphasizes looking good and taking care of your appearance through grooming your hair and nails.

Think positively about aging: A positive attitude toward aging can improve quality of life.

Sally Frohlich’s combination of genetics and healthy lifestyle habits provides valuable insight into living a long and fulfilling life.