Abstract:
A study was carried out to investigate some factors involving longevity of human life. These factors included genetic, food and nutrition, exercise or physical work, recreation and leisure, health habits and drugs used, and stress. Ten centenarians in chonburi Province of eastern Thailand, name and area of residence obtained from various sources, were interviewed directly and/or indirectly by the researcher. Percentage was used to analyze the data.Data showed that subjects group ancestors had lived long (average age 80 years). This phenomen indicated some genetic influence on longevity. Concerning food and nutrition, it was found that all subjects and consumed the so-called general or typical Thai food which the five basic food groups were generally found. The maintenance of their daily caloric intake was based on 3 meals a day (brealefast, lunch and dinner). The finding stresses the importance of a life style not to skip any main meal. With respect to muscular work, it was found that all subjects were generally physically active through work and exercise. Ninety percent of the subject reported that they still used their muscle for active movement such as work and general movement. It was also found that their former occupation were generally involved muscular work, i.e. rice and other crops farming. This physically active life style seem to confirms a strong link between exercise and longevity. Further more, it was found that the subjects slept on the average of 8-10 hours a night. It is interesting to note that they generally go to bed early and also get up early. Their sleep is of "high quality", i.e. having a deep sleep. With respect to recreation and leisure, the subject appears to have involved with activities of their likes which include several activities such as look after the children and go to the temple. This lifestyle pattern indicates some balance between work and recreation. It was quite interesting also to find that all subjects reported that they had been free of disease even though feeling a decrease in physical working capacity. However, it is contradition to a general belief that the subjects reported that they were to get modern medication instead of an ancient one. The subjects group also reported that they were genrally free of serious psychological stress indicating that life stress of the old days were minimal or that the subjects were skillful in solving a problem of life or both. There were some indication that all subjects lived under some kind of stress at one time or another. They felt that their stress could be reduced though such activities as walking, leisure activities, sleep, or pray the lord Buddha. Further more, the subjects felt that they were "hard-to-get-upset" type of people. This indicated emotional stability these centenarians. Finally, it was found that the subject looked at themselves as responsible, cheerful, socialzation, honest, deligent and patient people.In conclusion longevity among the centenarrians of the present study involves, beside genetic background, the following lifestyle.1. Having 3 regular meals a dya.2. Exercise regularly from an everly age on ward.3. Sleep 8-10 hours a night.4. Involve in a leisure activity during free time.5. Use modern medication to treat a sickness.