This page is part of an earlier Life+ presentation. The newer framework is described in Longevity and Scientific Checkpoints.
Longevity and Preserving Function
What interests me in longevity is not the number of years alone, but how long a person can retain movement, clear thinking, independence and the ability to make their own decisions. That makes the areas of work, the criteria for choosing an approach and the limits of acceptable risk especially important.
§ 01
Areas of work
LG.01-LG.05LG.01Slowing age-related processes
Working with important mechanisms involved in ageing: inflammation, metabolism, body composition, vascular health and hormonal regulation. The aim is to slow deterioration, not to promise rejuvenation.
LG.02Early detection
Regular monitoring of relevant biomarkers and targeted examinations. Detecting a problem earlier can allow a less disruptive and less costly response. The absence of symptoms does not, by itself, demonstrate good health.
LG.03Preserving cognitive function
A separate priority: sleep, movement, learning, social connections, hearing and eyesight. For a long life to remain one's own, cognitive function matters at least as much as physical condition.
LG.04Function in later life
The goal is to preserve independence, mobility and the ability to act, rather than merely reach a particular age. Strength, balance and response time are among the practical indicators of autonomy.
LG.05Working with medicine
Doctors are neither saviours nor adversaries in this model. They contribute to the process of making decisions. My responsibility is to ask informed questions, assemble relevant information and remain engaged in decisions about my body.
§ 02
Rules for decisions
R.01-R.03R.01Do not chase trends
I do not try every intervention mentioned in a podcast. I give priority to approaches backed by evidence and supported by an understandable mechanism of action.
R.02Do not damage connected systems
Every approach also has to be considered for its effects on mental well-being, sleep, relationships and work. Improving one parameter at the expense of another is a poor outcome.
R.03Do not confuse longevity with immortality
The aim is to extend healthy life, not deny that life has limits. This changes how I approach risk: not at any cost, and with autonomy preserved for as long as possible.
§ 03
Connections
where this leadsFor me, longevity rests on three connected foundations: energy, health, attention. Life OS also addresses the situations described by Recover, Adapt and Deep Care. A longer life opens up a different scale of possible goals, explored in the central Life+ objective (LE.07).