What Is Healthspan? Your Guide to Living Well, Longer In 2026

Do you think of ageing as just another birthday — more candles, a few more wrinkles, and a gradual slowing down?

What if you reframed your mindset entirely? Instead of focusing on how many years you’ll live, imagine how many of those years you could live well — feeling vibrant, independent, and engaged in the world around you.

Traditionally, we’ve measured ageing in terms of lifespan, the total number of years we live. But there’s another measure that may matter even more: healthspan — the length of time we live in good health, feeling strong, mobile, mentally sharp, and free from chronic disease or disability.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expanded its definition of health to include “a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

On average, the gap between healthspan to lifespan is nine years, meaning most people live that many years longer than they remain healthy.

Create a strategy for a better healthspan

Begin closing the gap today. Here are a few areas of your health to consider as you live better longer:  

Nutrition

Choose a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins, while minimising processed foods. This helps reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, and protect against chronic disease.  

Movement

Regular physical activity is one of the most powerful tools for slowing biological aging. Include cardio, strength, and mobility work to boost energy, improve balance and bone health, and support brain function.  

Sleep

Quality sleep allows your body to repair and regenerate. Chronic sleep deprivation accelerates cellular aging. Aim for 7–9 hours each night.  

Stress Management

It’s not about avoiding stress but recovering well from it. Calm your nervous system through meditation, breathwork, time in nature, or mindful relaxation.  

Social Connection & Purpose

Emotional well-being is essential for a long, healthy life. People with strong relationships and a sense of purpose live longer and feel better. Nurture your connections, engage with your community, and keep learning and giving.