Journal Article

Beyond survival: redefining successful aging in the era of medical complexity

Modig, K., Ebeling, M.
PLOS Biology, 24:5, e3003784 (2026)
Open Access

Abstract

A common misconception is that increasing longevity reflects slower aging. Instead, most longevity gain comes from medical advances that allow survival with disease, rather than changes to the biology of aging itself, challenging how we study aging and health.

Keywords: Europe, health, medical care
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The Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR) in Rostock is one of the leading demographic research centers in the world. It's part of the Max Planck Society, the internationally renowned German research society.