Could travelling keep you young? Some scientists think so
Travelling has been linked to a tonne of positive health effects, including lowered levels of stress. But new research has found that travel may even keep you young.
It seems a little random, but the study found that certain parts of travel—like making new social connections, getting better sleep, and having new experiences—could help lower your risk of premature ageing.
'As tourism scholars, we are eager to see how travel could make a real difference in people’s lives, especially when it comes to health and ageing,' says Fangli Hu, lead study author and a PhD candidate at Edith Cowan University.
So, how does this all connect? Here’s what the study found, plus what other scientists think about this.
Meet the experts: Fangli Hu, lead study author and a PhD candidate at Edith Cowan University. Shannel Kassis Elhelou, PsyD, a geropsychology and neuropsychology fellow at Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Brain Wellness and Lifestyle Programs in Santa Monica, California.
What did this study find?
The study, which was published in the Journal of Travel Research in August, applied the theory of entropy (which is the trend of everything moving towards death and disorder) to tourism. The researchers determined that by mixing up your usual routine and seeing new things, you can lower your levels of stress and elevate your metabolism (which boosts your immune system in the process).
It may even aid hormones that help with tissue repair and regeneration, ultimately helping to slow signs of ageing.
Can travel slow ageing?
It’s hard to say for sure. The study is more of a theory at this point—meaning it didn’t, say, compare the signs of ageing in people who traveled against those who stayed home.
Still, the theory is 'compelling', says Shannel Kassis Elhelou, PsyD, a geropsychology and neuropsychology fellow at Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Brain Wellness and Lifestyle Programs in Santa Monica, California.
'It aligns with what we identify as the pillars of brain health: sleep, nutrition, stress management, exercise, socialisation, and cognitive stimulation', Elhelou says. 'Travel naturally incorporates many of these elements—especially through physical activity, cognitive engagement from novel experiences, and the social interactions that come with exploring new cultures. These factors are vital for maintaining cognitive and mental health, plus fostering a sense of happiness and purpose.'
Travel can also help promote a healthy lifestyle, by encouraging more physical activity and social connection, Hu says. 'Additionally, travel could lead to healthier eating as we try fresh, local foods,” she says.
Is there a right way to travel for longevity?
Again, this is a pretty new concept and it’s hard to say for sure that traveling can slow aging. But, given that travel is fun for most people, it can’t hurt.
Hu also says there’s no 'right' way to travel. 'The ideal way to travel really depends on each person’s situation and needs', Hu says. 'An annual holiday could be beneficial, but for some, more frequent travel or regular short getaways might provide even greater benefits. It doesn’t have to be an international trip; local travel or weekend escapes might work well, too.'
So, get out there a little more. It could help keep you young—or just show you a good time!
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