Rethinking ageing: It’s not about just adding years to life, but adding life to years
Rather than merely managing longevity, we must steward it with wisdom.
Singapore's population is rapidly aging, with many people living into their 80s and beyond. My father turned 90 this year and we wished him longevity, good health, and a life as long-lasting as the southern mountains – traditional blessings reflecting our universal desire for more than just extended years. It is clear that living well into advanced age is now a reality, not just a lofty aspiration.
As people age, the question arises whether ageing should be considered a disease or a natural part of life's progression. Some argue that redefining ageing as a disease could spur research and funding, while others caution against such a broad interpretation. From a biological perspective, ageing can certainly be viewed as a series of progressively impairing processes that affect function, such as cardiovascular deterioration or sarcopenia.
Rather than viewing ageing as a monolithic condition, we can identify specific biological markers to predict and prevent issues before they become irreversible. Just as we monitor blood pressure to prevent strokes and heart disease, we can track markers like telomere length, stem cell reserves, and immune function to intervene early in the ageing process.
While there is no single "magic pill" for ageing, we already have several proven interventions, including statins, blood pressure medications, and diabetes drugs that extend life by preventing disease and preserving function. The real challenge is applying these proven longevity medicines earlier in life. An active 90-year-old who runs marathons and manages daily activities independently should not be considered unhealthy, any more than a cancer survivor who runs with a healthy heart.
A functional definition of healthy longevity focuses on preserving independence, purpose, and engagement rather than merely chronology. For older adults who choose to continue working – whether formally or through volunteering or mentoring – they can still contribute valuable experience and knowledge to society. With a rapidly aging population, Singapore must support policies that enable healthy longevity, not just longer lives.
We must find ways to retain the economic and social contributions of older individuals, regardless of their chronological age.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
