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By Paul Han, MD
President, Association of Korean American Medical Graduates (AKAM)
Most people are aware that regular exercise, sound sleep, and a good diet are essential for living a long and healthy life. While these activities contribute to maintaining health, the most critical factor in determining human well-being is the mindset of understanding life’s meaning, rather than just physical health.
A survey conducted over four years with 8,000 adults aged 50 and above reveals that those with a strong sense of purpose had less than half the mortality rate of those with a lower sense of purpose. In other words, people who live with a sense of meaning demonstrably lived longer. The impact of life's meaning on longevity is evident regardless of age, gender, wealth, or education level and is a more significant factor than exercise, smoking, or alcohol consumption.
Though the precise mechanism by which a sense of meaning extends lifespan remains unclear, it reportedly helps reduce stress. Individuals who feel they are not achieving anything experience more stress than those pursuing goals. Conversely, reduced anxiety can decrease cardiovascular issues. People with a sense of purpose tend to manage their personal care more diligently, engaging in exercise, undergoing breast or prostate exams, and attending regular physical check-ups. It logically follows that those who value life's meaning also take better care of their health. However, what does it truly mean for a person to attribute meaning to their life, and for what should we live? Unfortunately, most studies do not specify what constitutes life's meaning for humans, nor do they compare different values. In medical research, life's meaning is generally defined individually. People often sense that life is meaningful but struggle to articulate specific and unique meanings.
Some find life's source and meaning through religion. Certain studies associate religion with longevity, noting that adult women (aged 30-55) who attend religious activities more than once weekly have a 33% lower mortality rate than those who do not. Middle-aged patients (aged 40-65) participating in religious activities more than once weekly also showed over a 50% reduction in mortality. Interestingly, the survival benefit was present regardless of whether religious activities occurred in a temple, church, or mosque. According to the Pew Research Center, while family is the primary motivator for most people, meaning can also be found through friendships, career, financial stability, home, hobbies, creative activities, and learning or education.
Regardless of how individuals define life's meaning, finding what you wish to live for is essential for a better life. A purpose-driven life may indeed be the key to longevity.
Association of Korean American Medical Graduates (AKAM)
AKAM, a volunteer organization based in New York and New Jersey, is dedicated to promoting community health and well-being. We focus on volunteering, education, research, and mentorship for physicians and students interested in medicine. More information can be found here.
