07/06/2026
🧠 The way you think about aging may influence how you age.
We often focus on exercise, nutrition, sleep, and medical care when it comes to healthy aging. Those things matter. But research from Yale professor Dr. Becca Levy suggests something else matters too: our beliefs about aging.
The expectations we hold about getting older can influence our physical health, cognitive health, and even longevity.
These beliefs often show up in everyday decisions:
• What activities we try
• How active we stay
• What we assume is "normal" for our age
• What we quietly decide is no longer possible
The challenge? Many of these beliefs are shaped by cultural messages we've absorbed since childhood.
Instead of viewing aging as something to fight, Dr. Levy encourages us to think about aging as something we can support physically, mentally, and emotionally.
One practical strategy:
Build a portfolio of positive aging role models. Think of people in their 70s, 80s, or 90s who inspire you through their resilience, curiosity, strength, kindness, or independence.
💭 A quick reflection:
When you picture yourself at 70, 80, or 90, what do you expect?
Where did that expectation come from?
Is there a better example you'd rather follow?
Healthy aging isn't about fighting time. It's about building capacity, staying engaged, and creating a better story about what's possible.
Dr. Becca Levy’s Book
Breaking the Age Code: How Your Beliefs About Aging Determine How Long and Well You Live
Podcast Interviews
American Medical Association – Moving Medicine with Dr. Becca Levy
Kevin Miller – Self-Helpful Podcast with Dr. Becca Levy