Quality vs quantity? When it comes to your life - here's why both matter

Ever hear someone say they don't prioritise healthy living because they're not trying to live forever? Fair enough - but there's more to it than that!

While research does show that healthy behaviours like physical activity and good nutrition can increase longevity, we all understand that there's little joy in living for longer if it's in poor health.

What is healthspan?

Healthspan refers to the number of years you live in good health, as opposed to the number of years you're alive (lifespan). Vitality's recent global research shows a widening gap between these two, reflecting a worsening quality of life in later years.

So how do I stay healthy, for longer?

Before you get too alarmed, there's also good news. Our research further revealed that a few, simple changes to lifestyle behaviours can have an enormous impact on your healthspan. Here are a few key actions you can change to dramatically improve your current (and future) quality of life - plus how Vitality can help turn theory into reality!

1. The first step is to know where you stand. A simple health check can help with that. Plus, Discovery Health Medical Scheme covers one check a year from your screening and prevention benefit.
2. Did you know that an average 30-year-old man can increase his healthspan by 2.5 years simply by improving his diet? You can too, by including more healthy foods in your diet - like fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, and wholegrains.
3. You may have already guessed this, but almost all of us need to move more. That same hypothetical man could also increase his healthspan by 1.5 years just by introducing 20 minutes of vigorous exercise a day. And 20 minutes daily is doable for most of us. To help start a habit of regular exercise, consider taking advantage of big discounts on monthly gym fees.
4. If you're not a gym bunny and prefer to get active in your own way, that's perfectly fine - just monitor your workouts to make sure you're meeting the recommended levels of physical activity to make a difference to your health. A fitness device can help you keep track of how often you work out, for how long, and at what intensity - plus, it's extra rewarding when you can save on great gear!
5. Do you have no problem starting an exercise plan - just trouble sticking to one? You're not the only one! Help keep yourself accountable by joining a community, like a local running or cycling club. The sense of belonging and comradery when people meet to exercise together can help to challenge you in healthy ways, while making friends and having fun.
6. Taking of having fun - research shows that humans respond well to rewards, so build in a system of rewards for healthy living that suits and motivates you.

These healthy actions are generally applicable, but there are likely specific recommendations that consider your age, sex, health status, and current lifestyle choices that would ensure the prescribed actions are suitable and will have the greatest possible impact on your health.

Even modest changes make a material difference

Our Vitality HealthyFutures model makes it clear that when it comes to quantity and quality of life - both matter. But if there's one thing to take away from reading this article, let it be this word of encouragement: the data shows that even modest behaviour change can materially reduce health risk over time.

That's why we're here to support you with great incentives, terrific gear and huge discounts to make healthy living simpler, affordable and satisfying! Discovery Health Medical Scheme members like you achieve your goals at no cost for three months... and reward you for making healthy choices.

We're keen to help you #moveforhealth and enjoy all the benefits of a healthier future. Try out Vitality today to start experiencing the change yourself!

Live life with Vitality.

Vitality is a separate wellness product sold and administered by Discovery Vitality (Pty) Ltd, registration number 1999/007736/07, Rewards based on your engagement in Vitality programmes. Terms, Conditions and Limits apply.