The 50th episode of The Health Wrap by The Hindu explores longevity, healthspan and factors that influence health as people age.

Ramya Kannan, Health Editor, The Hindu, speaks to Navin Gnanasekaran, longevity physician and head of Radiology, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, about healthy ageing and the distinction between lifespan and healthspan.

India’s population is ageing. According to the United Nations Population Fund’s India Ageing Report 2023, the share of people aged 60 and above is projected to increase from 10.5% in 2022 to 20.8% by 2050. The episode discusses what this demographic change means for maintaining health and functional ability in later life.

The conversation covers racquet sports as a key form of physical activity, along with nutrition, sleep, muscle strength, stress, metabolism, inflammation and cognition. It also examines the importance of establishing sustainable health habits.

Physical activity is a key part of the discussion. The World Health Organisation recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week for adults, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. For older adults, the guidelines also recommend activities that improve balance and help prevent falls.

Racquet sports are discussed as one form of physical activity. Dr. Gnanasekaran looks at how they can combine exercise with social interaction and cognitive engagement.

The episode also discusses whether longevity advice needs to account for Indian lifestyles and health needs, including food habits, physical activity and other aspects of daily life.

The discussion focuses on the practical aspects of maintaining health and physical function as people live longer, and on the difference between simply extending lifespan and maintaining health during those additional years.

The episode can also be viewed here at The Hindu health page along with the full playlist of The Health Wrap .