As Herlda Senhouse’s 113th birthday approaches, her list of remarkable traits continues to grow. Not only is she mentally sharp, nimble enough to play slots at a casino near her home, and able to read the newspaper without glasses, but she is also a truly exceptional super-ager. This term refers to individuals surpassing age 80 in physical fitness and cognitive ability. What sets Senhouse apart, then, is her Blackness.
America’s population is aging rapidly, and experts predict that the number of individuals living to 100—many in surprisingly good health—is expected to grow sixfold by 2060. Senhouse’s remarkable journey as a centenarian of color is a testament to her unique resilience and endurance.
The racial gap in health and longevity is harrowing, with Black Americans having a significantly lower life expectancy than white Americans. Research shows that this racial disparity is a result of socioeconomic disadvantages that add up and take a toll on the health of Black Americans from early adulthood. It has been further exacerbated by systemic racism, as Black Americans tend to receive less and lower-quality care for serious conditions, as well as less preventive care.
Despite these challenges, researchers have found that Black Americans who reach the age of 85 in good health outperform their white counterparts of the same age in terms of their ability to achieve extreme longevity. Yet, achieving equal longevity for all races will require addressing fundamental issues such as income equality, access to quality healthcare, and affordable, healthy food options. Additionally, the impact of stress and systemic racism on aging bodies must be addressed to provide everyone with an equal chance at living a long, healthy life.
