Longevity Expert's Tip for a Healthier Life

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COUNTING THE CLOCK until your retirement? You might want to put away your pension plan. According to a Japanese doctor, you should never clock out of the workforce - or do so well after the age of 65, at least. In an interview with Japan Times, Dr Shigeaki Hinohara, who lived until he was 105 years old, said not retiring was one of his secrets to living a long, healthy life. Before you roll your eyes, consider this: When most people lived until age 68, the typical retirement age was around 65 years old. Now that people are living much longer, they should also hold off on retiring, according to Dr Hinohara. Staying busy well into your senior years gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which could keep you healthy as you age - although those with physical jobs may need to change vocation.

The longevity expert also practiced what he preached. Until a few months before his death in July last year, he still treated patients and worked up to 18 hours a day. He also had a diary which had space for another five years of appointments. "He believed that life is all about contribution, so he had this drive to help people, to wake up early in the morning and do something wonderful for other people," journalist ludit Kawaguchi told the BBC. "This is what was driving him and what kept him living." Thanks to Dr Hinohara's example, the perfect age to retire is... well, never. By planning goals for today, tomorrow, and even the next five years, you can keep your body (and your mind!) active for decades longer. Still aiming for an early retirement? We don't blame you.

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