A high heart rate and a low heart rate variability at rest are established predictors of various forms of functional impairment, morbidity, and mortality [1–6]. Two explanations can be given for... Show moreA high heart rate and a low heart rate variability at rest are established predictors of various forms of functional impairment, morbidity, and mortality [1–6]. Two explanations can be given for these associations. On one hand, a high heart rate and a low heart rate variability are thought to reflect dysfunction of the flexible autonomic regulation of the heart rate in particular and of the body's functioning in general that arises during ageing [3–5]. On the other hand, a high heart rate and a low heart rate variability are brought about by cardiovascular risk factors, such as obesity, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, hypertension, and physical inactivity [2,3,7–9]. Since research on heart rate and heart rate variability has almost exclusively been conducted in western populations with an affluent sedentary lifestyle and high prevalences of these risk factors, it has been difficult to determine whether or not heart rate and heart rate variability are associated with functional impairment, morbidity, and mortality independently of cardiovascular risk factors. Show less
Engelaer F.M.; Bodegom D. van; Westendorp, R.G.J. 2013
Life expectancy has steadily increased with around 2.5 years per decade over the past 150 years and continuous to do so at a similar rate [1]. Before 1950, the increase in life expectancy was... Show moreLife expectancy has steadily increased with around 2.5 years per decade over the past 150 years and continuous to do so at a similar rate [1]. Before 1950, the increase in life expectancy was primarily driven by reductions in child mortality. During the last decades, however, the increase in life expectancy is mainly the result of mortality reductions at old age [2]. Better living conditions and hygiëne have saved us from an early death, while incremental health care innovations have brought us an old age Show less
