Hawaiians are some of the longest-living people in the world, with an average lifespan of up to 7 years longer than the rest of the world. Why is this? Many factors play a role, from cultural traditions to an active lifestyle that emphasizes health and wellness, but there are underlying reasons behind the long life spans that many don’t know about.
In this article, you will learn why Hawaiians typically live longer than other populations worldwide. Through comprehensive analysis, it will examine and uncover how their diet, values, and culture have uniquely impacted their longevity—allowing you to gain insight into what makes them such centenarians!
The Average Lifespan Of A Hawaiian
Living in a place as beautiful as Hawaii, it is no surprise that residents enjoy healthy life spans far longer than the regional average. Research has revealed that Hawaiian people tend to live at least y years longer than people living in the rest of the world, with an average lifespan of 80.7 years, according to 2020 statistics.
Compared to the average lifespan of other populations worldwide, Hawaiians enjoy an impressive 7-year life expectancy bonus! This statistic is worth noting as it speaks volumes about Hawaiian people’s health and lifestyle practices.
Factors That Allow Hawaiians To Live 7 Years Longer
Looking at the average lifespan isn’t enough to fully understand why Hawaiians are long-lived. To truly comprehend this phenomenon, it is essential to look at some factors contributing to their extra years of life.
Active Lifestyle
Hawaiians are known for their active and outdoor lifestyle. With its warm climate and beautiful natural surroundings, Hawaii is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and swimming. Many Hawaiians are known to spend much of their time outdoors, engaging in activities that keep them active and promote physical fitness. And this daily physical activity helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall health, which is a key factor in why Hawaiians live longer.
Moreover, physical activity is not just limited to outdoor activities. Many Hawaiians also engage in traditional dance and cultural activities that require physical exertion. These activities provide a fun and enjoyable way to exercise and promote cultural and community connections. This plays an important role in improving the overall social health of Hawaiians.
Healthy Eating Habits
The typical Hawaiian also has a healthy and balanced diet rich in fresh and locally grown fruits, vegetables, and seafood. They often consume less processed and junk food and prioritize fresh, whole foods packed with nutrients and antioxidants. This diet helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, a diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients can help improve overall health and increase lifespan.
Furthermore, Hawaiians also have a strong tradition of communal eating and gathering around food. This social interaction helps reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being. It also allows for a greater variety of healthy foods to be consumed and an opportunity to try new and different types of cuisine. This can help to break the monotony of a typical diet and prevent boredom, which is often a contributing factor to unhealthy eating habits.
Strong Sense Of Community
Another piece of the puzzle lies in the invaluable community ties Hawaii has nurtured for centuries. Even before tourism dipped its toe into their vibrant shoreline, Hawaiians have been deeply connected to one another and their land. That same sense of solidarity has evolved to become an advantage that benefits Hawaiians today, providing them with an often overlooked source of good health and well-being.
Elderly residents are looked after by those around them, creating a cohesive network that ensures all receive appropriate assistance. In times of adversity, too, communities across these islands rally together to support one another as if they were part of an extended (Ohana) family – which encourages healthier lifestyles and empowers individuals to live longer, more active lives in a supportive environment.
Access to Healthcare
Maybe one of the biggest factors in their longer lifespan is having a high level of access to healthcare. With a well-developed healthcare system, Hawaiians can easily receive quality medical care and preventive services, which helps to detect and treat health issues before they become more serious. Additionally, the state’s healthcare system is known for its focus on preventative care, which helps to promote overall health and wellness.
In addition, Hawaii has a large number of healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. This allows residents to receive prompt and comprehensive medical care when needed, regardless of their location on the islands. But most of all, the healthcare system in Hawaii is dedicated to addressing health disparities and providing care to all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This helps ensure everyone has equal access to the care they need!
Lower Stress Levels
When you envision Hawaiians, most people think of them for their laid-back, relaxed lifestyle. This relaxed atmosphere helps Hawaiians keep a good balance between work and leisure, promoting lower stress levels. However, this low-stress lifestyle is also aided by the natural beauty of Hawaii’s islands and its abundance of outdoor activities. Taking in breathtaking views, spending time outdoors in nature, or engaging in water sports are all simple activities that help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
Not to mention, Hawaiian culture revolves around a sense of hospitality and an aloha spirit that helps to foster a positive attitude. This gives Hawaiians an overall feeling of contentment, allowing them to focus on enjoying life rather than worrying about it. All these elements combine to form a strong foundation for good health in the Hawaiian Islands.
Strong Cultural Traditions
Being surrounded by rich cultural traditions tremendously impacts Hawaiians’ quality of life and explains why they tend to live longer than the rest of the United States. Native Hawaiian communities draw strength from their collective identity and direction from their customs, which encourages them to prioritize healthy eating, exercising, and connecting with others.
Many of these healing practices involve traditional medicine and stories that teach how to care for their minds, bodies, and souls. Elders in these villages are held in esteem as they serve as guardians of the ancient customs and ethical way of living. Ultimately, the prolonged presence of Hawaiian culture not only creates a healthier environment but ultimately promotes a longer lifespan.
High Quality Of Life
Hawaii is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and overall paradise-like environment. But beyond the beautiful scenery, Hawaii’s high quality of life gives its residents more than just breathtaking views – it also may contribute to a longer lifespan! People tend to be healthier when they feel connected to their community and have access to supportive resources.
The Hawaiian Islands are home to many cultural activities like music, dancing, and festivals that help keep people engaged with each other while staying active and having fun. Additionally, Hawaii offers great schools, job opportunities, and wonderful recreational activities that enable people to live fulfilling lives. Combined with the relaxed atmosphere, these provide Hawaiians with exceptional quality of life.
It’s Easy To See Why Hawaiians Live 7 Years Longer!
Hawaiians live a bit differently than the rest of the country, and it shows. This is due in part to all of the different elements discussed above. From strong healthcare systems and low-stress levels to rich cultural traditions and high quality of life, Hawaii offers its residents the perfect blend of factors that allow them to live seven years longer! So it may be worth taking a few tips and tricks from the Hawaiian Islands to live your own long, healthy life!
