Life span versus health span -- is there a role for AI?

Useful takeaways from this story.

Today's life expectancy chart for 2026 notes an increase of life expectancy at birth to 79.

Of course, that is a silly number to mention among the 65+ population which can expect to live into their mid-80s.

You notice the very frail in their 80s walking carefully with a cane or walker.

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The useful part

Today's life expectancy chart for 2026 notes an increase of life expectancy at birth to 79. Of course, that is a silly number to mention among the 65+ population which can expect to live into their mid-80s. You notice the very frail in their 80s walking carefully with a cane or walker.

How it works

Johns Hopkins researcher in the <a href="https://geriatri...
Or people in their 70s and beyond lifting heavy weights in a gym or bicycling long distances.
These differences reveal a sharp contrast between health span and life span.
Some of the differences in health status cannot be fully controlled today with medication, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Parkinson's – at least so far.
Individuals with these diseases can still live into their 80s though their mobility and health are compromised.

What to take from it

The quality of lives of those with arthritis or Parkinson's is reflected in their reduced health span, that is the number of years they remain in reasonably good health.

Details worth keeping

Longevity expectations can mislead or inform. The physical condition they are in varies all over the map. Health span is noticeable distinct among older adults.

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