A study out of University College London published in the April 2014 issue of BMJ.com showed that low levels of physical function that included grip strength, chair rise speed, and standing balance predicted longevity and quality of life in mid-life.
Scientists followed 5000 people aged 53 for 13 years. There were 177 deaths, and those with the poorest ability to do the above tests had the highest incidence of cancer, cardiovascular, and all cause mortality. They tended to have low incomes and unhealthy lifestyle habits.
