Longevity: 69% of Germans seek longer healthy lives despite barriers

A recent Forsa survey commissioned by DAK-Gesundheit reveals that 69 percent of Germans express a desire to live longer, healthier lives through the concept of longevity. While many respondents identified specific actions to improve health—such as increasing physical activity (74 percent), maintaining social contacts (71 percent), training the brain (62 percent), and improving sleep (59 percent)—significant barriers prevent implementation.

The primary obstacles cited are a lack of time (40 percent) and a lack of motivation or discipline (35 percent). Notably, men reported higher levels of motivation issues (40 percent) compared to women (30 percent). Additionally, 22 percent of respondents cited costs as a barrier, while 49 percent view aging as a natural process that does not require intervention.

The survey highlights a tension between the growing commercial interest in longevity—exemplified by high-profile figures like Bryan Johnson—and the practical challenges faced by the general population. Health experts suggest that fundamental pillars like nutrition, movement, and sleep are essential, noting that expensive high-tech solutions are not strictly necessary for healthy aging.