When we talk about living longer, we often think of the number of years we live. The quality of those years matters too. Healthspan invites us to consider how we want to live each day and what we would like to keep doing as we grow older.
Lifespan counts the years; healthspan considers health within them
Lifespan is the total length of a person’s life. Healthspan generally refers to the years lived without significant illness or disability. The two concepts describe different aspects of life: its duration and our health along the way.
Consider what you are able to do
The World Health Organization describes healthy ageing in terms of the abilities that support wellbeing in later life, including moving around, making decisions and maintaining relationships. This perspective does not require everyone to be completely free of disease. It recognises the importance of being able to do what matters to you, with support from your environment.
Start with questions close to home
Which activities would you like to continue doing? What in your daily life is getting in the way? Which parts of your health information are still unclear? Writing down these questions can help you have a more focused conversation with your healthcare professional.
Blood tests are one part of the picture
BioSpan considers blood test results and biomarkers alongside lifestyle to help people better understand their bodies. A single set of results should not be used to predict how many years someone will live or replace a comprehensive health assessment.
This article is for general education and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have concerns about symptoms or test results, consult a qualified healthcare professional.