Lifestyle and successful aging in men and women

Successful aging is a complex, multidimensional process influenced by lifestyle factors, biological mechanisms, and sex-specific variations. This chapter discusses critical modifiable factors—nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and risk behaviors—and their distinctive impacts on aging trajectories for men and women. For example, there are significant sex-specific differences that influence dietary needs. Moreover, a number of studies on physical activity reveal that women and men may have distinct patterns of mortality risk reduction. Sleep disturbances further highlight these differences, suggesting that men exhibit greater vulnerability to age-related changes in sleep architecture. Additionally, alcohol and tobacco consumption present sex-specific risks, with women showing more susceptibility to toxic effects and systemic health consequences. Overall, current findings highlight the importance of sex-specific approaches in promoting successful aging. By recognizing biological and social determinants that uniquely affect men and women, healthcare strategies can be more precisely designed to optimize health outcomes, functional independence, and quality of life in older populations.