In addition, Stahl said, the increased level of mortality among the mistreated elderly was greater than expected. Mistreated elderly had a 3.1 times greater risk of dying than those with no reported mistreatment. The self-neglected had a 1.7 times increased risk. See related articles in the AgeVenture archives. Despite the common belief that longevity requires nothing more than good genes, there are other factors such as diet, lifestyle habits, and exercise that are strong contributors to longevity.
Genetic inheritance does play a significant role.
However, discounting the other factors can leave one feeling a bit fatalistic about their aging process. As a result, individuals may become too passive in their attention to diet, lifestyle, and exercise. One in four American adults have high blood pressure, which increases risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney failure. In its statement, the Nutrition Committee recommended a diet rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium and low in total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Secondly, it indicates that dietary components other than salt are also important in the control of high blood pressure.