91-Year-Old’s Vibrant Social Life Offers Clues to Healthy Aging
SAN DIEGO, CA – At 91 years old, Ralph Rehbock isn’t slowing down. The San Diego resident maintains a remarkably active social life, surrounded by family, friends, and community groups – a lifestyle researchers believe may be key to his status as a “superager,” someone who retains cognitive and physical health well beyond expectations for their age.
The growing field of superager research is revealing a potential link between robust social connections and brain health, offering hope for extending healthy lifespans. As populations worldwide age, understanding the factors that contribute to triumphant aging is increasingly critical. Scientists are now investigating weather actively cultivating relationships can protect against cognitive decline and improve overall well-being, and Rehbock’s life provides a compelling real-world example.
Rehbock’s extensive network includes two children in their 60s, ten grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren who frequently visit. beyond family, he prioritizes regular social engagements, meeting with a men’s club called Men Enjoying Leisure on the first Friday of each month and performing with a singing group specializing in music from the 1930s and 40s.
“These are things that still make up my life,” Rehbock shared. He also maintains contact with longtime friends and enjoys a close relationship with his neighbors.
Researchers at the University of California have found that superagers often possess a higher-than-average number of specialized brain cells called von Economo neurons. These cells, found only in highly social mammals like humans, apes, elephants, and whales, are believed to play a crucial role in social behavior.
“These cells likely help them build and maintain strong social connections and networks,” explains Dr. Bill Seeley,a professor of neurology and pathology at the University of California,in The New York Times. “This can have a notable impact on their overall well-being and health.”
The findings suggest that prioritizing social interaction isn’t simply a matter of enjoyment,but a perhaps vital component of maintaining cognitive function and a healthy life as we age. Further research is underway to determine if actively fostering social connections can be a preventative measure against age-related decline.
