How to be a ‘super ager’ - Post Reports Recap
Podcast: Post Reports
Published: 2026-01-02
Duration: 12 minutes
Guests: Ednajane Truax, Dr. Eric Topol
Summary
This episode revisits the inspiring story of Ednajane Truax, a 90-year-old 'super ager' who remains active and engaged in her community. It explores how lifestyle choices, rather than genetics, contribute significantly to healthy aging.
What Happened
The episode introduces Ednajane Truax, affectionately known as EJ, who is a 90-year-old living an extraordinarily active life in Washington, D.C. EJ drives a mini Cooper, maintains a vibrant garden, and is a frequent gym-goer, wearing a shirt that reads, 'You don't stop lifting when you get old - you get old when you stop lifting.' She can bench press 55 pounds and leg press 250, illustrating her commitment to staying physically active.
EJ's social life is bustling; though she never married, she is far from lonely. She engages with her community, knows her neighbors personally, and even hosted a lively 90th birthday party. Her adventurous spirit was highlighted by her decision to attend trapeze school for her 80th birthday, showing her zest for life and new experiences.
Maggie Penman, the reporter, delves into EJ's life to uncover the secrets to her longevity and vitality. EJ attributes her thriving old age to staying active and engaged, both physically and socially. She emphasizes the importance of community involvement and volunteering, which research supports as key factors in healthy aging.
The episode features insights from Dr. Eric Topol, a cardiologist who has researched 'super agers' extensively. He found that people over 85 who thrive without chronic diseases often share traits like optimism and physical activity, rather than genetic advantages.
Dr. Topol's research suggests that social interaction and having a purpose are crucial. Loneliness and isolation often plague the elderly, but EJ's active lifestyle and community engagement counteract these issues, supporting her health and longevity.
EJ's story is not just about her physical prowess but also her intellectual engagement. She volunteered at the Folger Shakespeare Library for 20 years, maintaining her cognitive vitality by staying mentally active.
The episode concludes with Maggie reflecting on EJ's goals, which include maintaining her gardens and being kind to others. These modest yet profound goals align with research on aging, underscoring the importance of purpose and community in living a fulfilling life.
Key Insights
- Research by Dr. Eric Topol indicates that 'super agers' over 85 who remain free of chronic diseases often share traits like optimism and regular physical activity, rather than relying on genetic advantages.
- Social interaction and having a sense of purpose are identified as crucial factors for healthy aging, with loneliness and isolation being significant risks for the elderly.
- Physical activity is a cornerstone of longevity, as demonstrated by a 90-year-old who can bench press 55 pounds and leg press 250 pounds, maintaining her physical health through regular gym visits.
- Intellectual engagement contributes to cognitive vitality in aging, exemplified by a 90-year-old who volunteered at the Folger Shakespeare Library for 20 years, keeping her mind active.