Chasing longevity: 1 in 6 Indians actively trying to slow ageing

A new survey by LocalCircles shows a growing focus on healthier living among Indians. But only a small percentage is actively working towards slowing the ageing process.

In Short

• Survey reveals 17% Indians know someone slowing ageing
• Only 7.3% actively work on ageing better
• Yoga and balanced diets gain popularity in India

India’s approach to ageing is quietly changing. More people are no longer just focused on living longer they want to live better. From clean eating and regular workouts to mindfulness and preventive health check-ups, a shift toward longevity-focused lifestyles is becoming visible across the country.

A recent nationwide survey by LocalCircles, released on World Health Day 2026, highlights this emerging trend.

While awareness about healthy ageing is growing, the number of people actively working towards slowing ageing is still relatively small.

The survey, which gathered responses from over 28,000 citizens across 311 districts, reveals that 17% of Indians know at least one person in their close social circle who is actively trying to slow ageing.

This includes efforts like improving diet, exercising regularly, taking supplements, and even exploring therapies.

When these findings are adjusted to reflect the average size of social networks, it translates to roughly 7.3% of Indians who are actively working on slowing down the ageing process.

In simple terms, about 1 in 6 Indians are now consciously thinking about ageing better, but only a fraction is actually taking consistent action.

A SHIFT FROM LIFESPAN TO HEALTH SPAN

Globally, the conversation around ageing has evolved. It is no longer just about adding more years to life, but adding more healthy years often referred to as “health span.”

India is also seeing this shift. People are becoming more aware of preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and the importance of routine screenings.

Vaccinations, regular health check-ups, and managing lifestyle diseases are slowly becoming priorities.

At the same time, fitness trends like yoga, strength training, and daily physical activity are gaining popularity. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants are being promoted to maintain energy and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND SLOWING AGEING

Advances in science and medicine are also influencing public thinking. Fields like biotechnology and longevity science are exploring ways to repair cells, slow biological ageing, and improve overall health.

While such therapies are still evolving, the idea of “ageing well” is becoming more mainstream. However, experts continue to stress that basic exercise, balanced nutrition, stress management, and good sleep remain the most effective tools.

Mental health is also playing a bigger role. Practices like meditation, mindfulness, and stress reduction are now seen as essential for healthy ageing, not just optional wellness trends.

INDIA’S RISING LIFE EXPECTANCY AND ITS CHALLENGES

India has made steady progress in increasing life expectancy. It has risen from 63.2 years in 2000 to 67.3 years in 2021. Projections suggest this number will continue to grow, with women expected to live up to nearly 80 years by 2050 and men up to 76 years.

However, there is a concern. While people are living longer, many of those extra years are spent dealing with health issues. This gap between lifespan and health span is a growing challenge.

In simple terms, people are living longer—but not always healthier.

This makes the focus on preventive health and lifestyle changes even more important.

WHY AWARENESS STILL NEEDS TO GROW

Despite increasing interest in longevity, the survey shows that only a small percentage of Indians are actively taking steps to slow ageing. Most people are still not making consistent lifestyle changes.

Experts say this highlights a gap between awareness and action.

Simple habits like walking daily, eating balanced meals, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress can make a significant difference. Even small changes, if sustained over time, can improve the quality of life in later years.

THE ROAD AHEAD

As India’s population continues to grow and age, the focus on healthy ageing will become even more important not just for individuals, but also for the healthcare system and the economy.

Longer, healthier lives can boost productivity and reduce the burden on healthcare infrastructure. But this will only be possible if more people start prioritising their health early.

The LocalCircles survey makes one thing clear: the conversation has started. Now, the challenge is to turn awareness into everyday action.

- Ends