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Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America·Apr 2026

We May Not Be Aging Slower. We're Just Starting Later.

A big question in longevity research is whether rising life expectancy means we're actually aging more slowly. This analysis of mortality data from 12 countries suggests the answer is no. After accounting for historical shocks like wars and pandemics, the rate at which aging accelerates after 80 hasn't changed. The gains in lifespan appear to come from pushing back when serious aging begins, not from slowing the process itself.

Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.