Want to Be 80 With the Brain of a 50-Year-Old? Here's How.

Most of us just want to make it to 80. A special group of humans called "SuperAgers" are doing that, and showing up with the memory of someone 30 years younger. Because apparently, that's an option now.

Northwestern University researchers coined the term, defining SuperAgers as folks over 80 who still have the memory recall of someone at least 30 years their junior. They're basically the brainy rockstars of the golden years.

And here's the kicker: it’s not just about living a long time. It’s about the state of your brain. Studies show SuperAgers' brains literally look younger. While someone with good longevity might have an 87-year-old brain that looks, well, 87, SuperAgers are losing significantly less brain volume. It’s like they found the brain’s fountain of youth and are just casually sipping from it.

Tamar Gefen, a Northwestern professor, quickly squashes any dreams of a magic pill. No "special trick" yet, she says. It's a delightful cocktail of biology, environment, and the choices you make every single day. Jennifer Ailshire, a gerontology professor, adds that SuperAgers often live past 85 while maintaining peak physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Because why settle for just living when you can thrive?

So, what are these brain wizards doing differently? Gefen notes some drink beer, others are teetotalers. Some are still running businesses, others have been retired for decades. The common thread, she believes, is being socially active or engaged in meaningful pursuits. Though, naturally, there are always exceptions to keep things interesting.

While there’s no official SuperAger instruction manual (yet), researchers agree on a few habits that seem to be doing the trick for these mental marvels.

The SuperAger Playbook

1. Keep Moving (Seriously, Just Move)

Ailshire emphasizes daily movement for both longevity and healthy aging. She prefers "movement" over "exercise" because it sounds less like a chore and more like... well, living. Think gardening, crafts, or simply not sitting still for too long. Apparently, SuperAgers have been physically active their whole lives. So, if you're currently glued to your desk, maybe start with a victory lap around the kitchen.

2. Stay Social

People who age well aren't hermits. They're out there, mingling with friends and family, volunteering, or engaging with colleagues. Strong social connections aren't just good for your mood; they're linked to longer lives and better brain and physical health. So, go ahead, RSVP to that dinner party. Your brain will thank you.

3. Ditch the Drama (Yours and Everyone Else's)

Life is full of stress, but SuperAgers seem to have a superpower for shedding the controllable stuff. Ailshire notes that many avoid other people's drama and actively try not to get angry or stressed often. They're not creating their own stress. Imagine that: a life where you don't actively seek out things to worry about.

4. Challenge Your Brain

This isn't about doing crosswords if they make you want to throw the paper across the room. It’s about true mental stimulation. Learning a new language, picking up an instrument, or tackling anything that genuinely challenges your mind. The key is that it has to be stimulating for you. No panic-induced puzzles allowed.

5. Do Things You Actually Enjoy

This one sounds deceptively simple. Healthy older individuals make time for activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. Gefen agrees: if it's engaging, enjoyable, motivating, and not stressful, you're on the right track. Because apparently, happiness isn't just a fleeting emotion; it's a longevity strategy. Who knew?