Who wants to live forever? Well, maybe not forever, but longer, yes?

In June 1986, arguably the best band of all time (or at least of that era) released yet another massive hit song.  They did this so often that it was almost expected that when they released a song it would naturally be a chart topper or at least a top 10 single.

This song was written by Brian May and featured one of his finest guitar solos (in my humble opinion) and it resonated so well with Queen fans and the general music loving public that it performed exceptionally well around the world.

The song? ‘Who Wants To Live Forever’. The lyrics are deep and poetic, as it ultimately asks, ‘Who waits forever anyway’?

Every time I hear this song, I ask myself the question, who wants to live forever? Being immortal has its own challenges, most of which have been explored in cinema in movies like ‘Highlander’ and a few newer films on the topic. Living forever may be at first glance quite the idea but outliving everyone you love and saying goodbye over and over may not be the best. 

READ: Oh, the memories! The Ads that are almost as nostalgic as the music

So, if not forever then for how long? What would you consider a long life? Mortality rates change from generation to generation and prior to the current pandemic, the human species was at a stage of long life prolonged by science and medical advancements.

Ok, so how about living to 100 years? That’s a fair amount of time to make the most of the joys of life and to experience enough of what the world has to offer, right?  But even 100 is not a feat most of us can achieve, so in my own special way I went out trying to find the key indicators to those who have managed this incredible milestone. Here they are:

- Positivity: It’s associated with higher levels of self-perceived health, which seems to protect people from depression and other afflictions. 

- Feeling connected: Experts say religion or spirituality has ties to longevity. They not only help with access to social supports and a sense of purpose, but they are better “coping strategies” than turning to alcohol or indulging in “comfort foods”.

- Prioritising plant-based nutrition: Areas around the world with the most extended longevity all have distinct culture-based eating patterns, usually plant-based. 

- Enjoying the great outdoors: When you’re outdoors, you’re being active. You’re also enjoying nature and are more likely to interact with others. All this can promote happy feelings, which promotes health.

- Remaining active: Guidelines recommend combining 150-300 minutes weekly of moderate-intensity activity with more vigorous exercise to promote healthy aging. That means being able to continue to do the things you enjoy for as long as you want without pain.

- Retaining a sense of purpose: Whether they care for great-grandchildren or partake in cultural crafts, the elderly in areas where people live the longest typically stay busy with productive activities. 

- Good genes: Our genetics contribute 20-30% to our longevity. If you have a parent who lived to 95+, you have better odds of achieving age milestones.

Ok, so now we know the traits, is it too late to start doing these and making the 100 mark? Of that I am not sure, but it’s never too late to start loving life and being happy, so maybe let’s just try that?

READ: Gordon Graham: "Let's make the World a better place!"

If all else fails, listen to East Coast Gold where the music will make you remember younger years and maybe make you feel young again.