healthspan
/ˈhɛlθˌspæn/
Definition
The total number of years an individual lives in good health, free from chronic disease and significant disability, as opposed to total lifespan.
Etymology
The word is a modern compound formed by combining 'health,' from the Old English 'hælth,' and 'span,' from the Old English 'spann,' referring to a stretch or period of time. It emerged in medical and longevity literature to distinguish the years of healthy living from the overall duration of a life.
In the news
In his lecture, Dr. Paul J. Zak explores how cultivating happiness and strong social connections can extend a person's healthspan, allowing for a higher quality of life during their later years. The term is used here to shift the focus from mere longevity to the maintenance of vitality and well-being.
Utah Valley University Conference on Mental Health Benefits Student Scholarships
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