Papal Age Difference Exceeds Typical Adult Lifespan
Pope Longevity: An Examination of the Exceptionally Long Lives of Popes
Popes, by and large, outlive the general population significantly. While faith and access to superior medical care are contributing factors, it appears that popes lead healthier lives in several aspects, offering valuable insights for the rest of us.
The last five popes have passed away at the ages of 80, 84, 95, and 88. Pope John Paul I, who died in 1978 at the age of 65 from a heart attack, just 33 days after his election, is the sole exception. Despite this unfortunate early departure, the average age of the Holy Fathers is 82.4 years, six years beyond the average life expectancy of Italian men.
The reason behind this longer lifespan remains elusive. "A healthy mind dwells within a healthy body," Julius Caesar penned in his epic poem, and this balance between physical and mental well-being seems to be a guiding principle for popes as well. The pope's physical health is managed by the medical staff at the Gemelli Clinic in Rome, one of the leading hospitals in Europe.
According to Dr. Gerd Wirtz, medical journalist and co-author of the Spiegel bestseller "The Longevity Compass," regular medical check-ups can substantially increase one's life expectancy.
The lives of popes exhibit striking parallels to the lifestyle recommendations emerging from longevity research. For instance, "Ora et labora" — work and pray—the motto of the Catholic Church, aligns with the importance of having a purpose in life, one of the key findings of longevity research. Popes are deeply committed to their duties, which likely gives their lives meaning and purpose, thereby contributing to their longevity.
Pope John Paul II, for example, was known for his regimen, which included swimming, promoting the pursuit of physical health. Popes are also engaged in intellectual work, which helps keep their minds active, another crucial factor in achieving longevity.
Being a public figure brings its own health benefits. "A Pope is somewhat like a rock star on stage, receiving applause and admiration," Dr. Wirtz compares. "This releases dopamine and endorphins, fostering inner satisfaction."
Popes live largely secluded lives within the walls of the Vatican, yet they are rarely lonely, as they are surrounded by trusted individuals. Social connections are a critical determinant of health and longevity.
Longevity research encompasses a holistic approach, advocating a diet of whole foods, adequate sleep, and regular exercise. While the Vatican's food sources are not publicly disclosed, it is suspected that their diet consists of nutrient-rich, locally-sourced meals.
Improving physical activity levels is recommended for older adults, and muscle training can offer significant life-prolonging benefits, regardless of age. Popes can be seen walking during public appearances, but as they age, focusing on flexibility, endurance, and muscle strength becomes increasingly important.
In conclusion, the extended lives of popes can be attributed to a combination of factors including late-life selection, access to top-notch medical care, a structured and healthy lifestyle, and the cognitive and emotional benefits of their unique role. By adopting these same principles, anyone can strive to live a longer, healthier life.
The European Union, with its leading hospitals like the Gemelli Clinic, could potentially benefit from studying the health-and-wellness practices of the Pope, given his exceptionally long life, to gain insights for the broader aging population within the union.
The special role of the European Union could be to collaborate with the Vatican and conduct research on the lifestyle and health patterns of the Pope, utilizing their collective resources in science and health-and-wellness to develop holistic strategies for aging populations across the continent.
