Cognitive and functional resilience as markers of longevity and successful ageing

Successful ageing and lifespan are increasingly recognized as results influenced by the preservation of cognitive and functional capacities. These indicators or markers, influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, are crucial for maintaining autonomy and quality of life in advanced age. Aim: the purpose of this study was to examine the existing empirical research on cognitive and functional resilience, assessing their roles as biomarkers of lifespan and successful ageing. Methods/Data Sources: we performed a literature search of peer-reviewed research investigating cognitive resilience, functional ability, and their predictors. Results: findings indicate that the maintenance of cognitive and functional abilities, together with the absence of disease across one’s lifetime are critical markers of successful ageing and longevity (i.e., Schupf et al., 2004). Rowe and Kahn's framework (1987) highlighted three essential components, the following: (i) absence of disease, (ii) active engagement or participation in life, and (iii) maintenance of both cognitive and physical functions. Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) defines healthy ageing as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age”, emphasising the significance of sustaining abilities such as fulfilling basic needs, acquiring knowledge, making decisions, preserving mobility, establishing relationships, and contributing to society. Studies such as the New England Centenarian Study, which collected data on functional activities (ADLs) and instrumental activities (IADLs) of daily living, medications, major medical diagnosis, hospitalisation, and life circumstances, revealed that individuals who achieved extreme old age had generally maintained good health and independence throughout most of their lives (Hitt, YoungXu, Silver and Perls, 1999). Recent empirical studies indicates that cognitive resilience, cognitive reserve and functional independence are essential for improving quality of life and serve as predictors of longevity. These parameters are influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle, encompassing physical activity, diet, social interaction, and mental stimulation. The concept of cognitive resilience underscores the brain's ability to adapt for agerelated changes, thereby influencing individual variability in the onset and progression of cognitive decline (Stern et al., 2019). Conclusions: cognitive and functional resilience are closely interconnected and play a pivotal role in promoting healthy ageing and longevity. Ongoing advancements in neuroscience are elucidating the biological mechanisms underlying ageing, providing prospective methods for early identification of individuals at risk of decline and the development of personalized interventions to enhance longevity. Determining efficient strategies and techniques to maintain cognitive and functional capacities is essential for improving both lifespan and healthspan.