This Asian Country Helps Its Citizens Reach 100 Years In Good Health, Here's How
Singapore is home to a lot of old people, some living up to the age of 100. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the Southeast Asian country has earned the distinction of being recognised as the newest 'blue zone,' signifying a place where people enjoy longer and healthier lives.
Singapore is home to a lot of old people, some living up to the age of 100. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the Southeast Asian country has earned the distinction of being recognised as the newest 'blue zone,' signifying a place where people enjoy longer and healthier lives.
What is a 'blue zone'?
The term "blue zone," created by author Dan Buettner, refers to places in the world where people are said to live longer than usual. They earned this name because Buettner and his team marked these regions with blue circles on a map during their search.
"Singapore has the highest health-adjusted life expectancy in the world. So whatever Singapore did, it worked at producing the longest, healthiest life on the planet," said Dan Buettner, as quoted by CNBC Make It.
What are the key habits for a long and healthy life?
Buettner and his team found the "Power 9," key habits of the world's healthiest and longest-living people:
- Move naturally in everyday life
- Have purpose
- Keep routines to de-stress
- Stop eating when 80% full
- Eat more plant-based
- Consume alcohol moderately
- Be part of a community
- Keep loved ones close
- Surround yourself with people with healthy habits
How does Singapore produce the longest & healthiest people?
Buettner believes Singapore is a "longevity hotspot" because it embraces these principles.
For example, in Singapore, they charge taxes on cars, gas, and using roads, so people often choose to walk.
Additionally, if you want to buy a car in Singapore, you need to get a license first, and sometimes the cost of the license is even more than the car itself.
Studies indicate that residents of blue zones value their relationships with loved ones and often choose to live close to them.
In Singapore, this is encouraged through policies like the Proximity Housing Grant, which provides financial incentives for families to reside together or nearby. Moreover, Singapore has made healthy food more affordable and readily available compared to unhealthy options.
Additionally, Singaporeans benefit from universal healthcare, ensuring access to high-quality medical services for prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
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