Healthspan

Definition

Healthspan is the portion of life spent in generally good health, free from major chronic disease, disability, or loss of independence. The term emphasizes quality of life, preserved function, and the ability to live well, rather than total years lived alone. [1] [2]

Why It Matters in Ageing Research

Healthspan matters because extending life without preserving function and independence may simply increase the years lived with disease or disability. Much of modern ageing research therefore focuses on whether interventions improve healthy years lived, not just survival. [1] [3]

Common Confusion

• Healthspan is not the same as lifespan, which is total years lived.
• Healthspan does not require perfect health or the total absence of disease.
• Different studies define and measure healthspan in different ways.

Related Reading

• Lifespan
• Healthspan vs Lifespan
• Healthspan and Lifespan

References

1. Kaeberlein, M. (2018). How healthy is the healthspan concept? GeroScience. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6136295/
2. Rowe, J. W., & Kahn, R. L. (1987). Human aging: usual and successful. Science. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3299702/
3. Fries, J. F. (2016). The theory and practice of active aging. Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4968910/