By Dr. Lauren Calabra Johnson
My grandfather passed away in February of 2025, just shy of his 98th birthday.
He lived independently until the very end. He took no daily medications. He had all of his teeth. He drove and played golf well into his 90s. He walked without assistance, managed his daily activities on his own, and never underwent a joint replacement or major surgery.
For someone born in the 1920s, this level of independence and vitality is remarkable. His life wasn’t just long—it was lived with health, autonomy, and purpose. That is the true definition of healthspan.
Longevity With Health IS NOT BY CHANCE
We are incredibly fortunate to have had him in our lives for so long—especially without a sudden accident or tragedy cutting that time short. But his health did not happen by chance.
It was the result of many conscious decisions, repeated consistently over decades.
He made clear choices about his lifestyle. He chose to stop smoking. He chose to stop drinking. He avoided fried foods without hesitation or regret. Nutrition was not a passing phase for him—it was a commitment.
Physically, he stayed active in simple, sustainable ways. He walked regularly. He maintained his independence. And he played golf—enthusiastically and consistently.
Golf may have chosen him as much as he chose it. He was good at it. He loved it. And it gave him a reason to keep moving, learning, and engaging with others.
The Role of Mindset and Passion
Perhaps most impressive was his mindset.
He remained mentally positive despite experiencing profound loss and witnessing the harsh realities of the world. His optimism wasn’t naïve—it was resilient. He showed up with steadiness, gratitude, and perspective.
Passion played a powerful role in his life. Passion for movement. Passion for routine. Passion for family he cared about deeply.
We often underestimate how much joy and purpose contribute to health. Passion fuels consistency. It gives meaning to the habits that support us physically and mentally.
Healthspan Is Often a Family Value
I see that same passion reflected in my family.
My parents are passionate about their family, music, the arts, golf, and travel. My sister pours her energy into networking, public policy, and creating truly great food. These passions shape how they move through the world and how they care for themselves.
Healthspan isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about building a life that supports your ability to live fully for as long as possible.
Longevity alone isn’t the goal. Living well during those years is.
My grandfather’s life reminds me that healthspan is built through:
Consistent movement
Thoughtful nutrition
Mental resilience
Purpose and passion
Daily decisions that support independence
I hope we can all find something that fuels us—something that supports our choices not just for a longer life, but for a stable, meaningful, and healthy one.
That is where the real value of those long years lives.
I hope that at our office we can support the decisions you want to make for your longevity goals. I found myself in this category of healthcare after inspiration from my family. Learning that there are things in our control- decisions and consistency we can commit to with a purpose and passion.
In loving memory of Joseph Calabra. I love you grandpa.
