The key to aging well, according to one geriatrician, is not found in supplements or special diets, but in consistently avoiding comfort. Dr. Stephanie Rogers, a geriatrician, observed that her healthiest patients in their 80s and 90s share a common trait: they have actively sidestepped comfort throughout their lives.
"If you really want to age well, avoid getting comfortable and always try new things," Rogers stated in a TikTok video. This approach is supported by the scientific principle of hormesis, which suggests that exposure to small, controlled doses of stress can stimulate beneficial adaptations in the body and mind, thereby building resilience.
Rogers explained that challenging the body in this manner helps it adapt to future stressors without causing harm. While hormesis is primarily associated with improving health during aging rather than extending lifespan, it complements established longevity practices like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Examples of hormesis in practice include strength training, which creates micro-tears in muscles that prompt them to rebuild stronger, and consuming plant compounds like resveratrol (found in berries and grapes) and sulforaphane (in cruciferous vegetables). These compounds can activate the body's natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defenses.
For physical health, Rogers recommends exploring new movements and exercises. This could involve incorporating activities like yoga for runners or adding balance and mobility exercises for weightlifters. A 2026 study indicated that individuals engaging in a variety of physical activities had a 19% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who maintained a consistent workout routine.
The principle of hormesis also extends to cognitive health. Rogers encourages learning new skills, pursuing hobbies, and expanding social circles by engaging with new people and discussing unfamiliar ideas. Learning a new language later in life has shown potential in slowing age-related cognitive decline, according to research presented at the 2026 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum.
Dr. Tommy Wood, a neuroscientist and author, noted that studies have demonstrated improvements in attention, working memory, and executive function in older adults after several months of language study. He emphasized that embracing mistakes is a significant driver of neuroplasticity and learning, suggesting that challenging oneself and accepting occasional failures can accelerate the learning process. This engagement not only strengthens the brain's adaptability but also helps maintain social connections.