Nicoya, Costa Rica was declared a Blue Zone in 2014 by National Geographic’s Dan Buettner. Why? It had a higher number of centenarians (people living past 100) than other parts of the world.
The contributing factors for Blue Zone status were a healthy, plant-rich diet with homegrown ingredients, light meals, natural movement, plenty of rest and lots of time spent with friends and family. Not to mention, the “plan de vida” concept, which is a positive outlook on life from enjoying the simpler pleasures.
However, in recent years, the number of centenarians is rapidly decreasing. What’s happening, why, and how can people help with the conversation efforts? We aim to answer all your questions.
The Decline of Nicoya Blue Zone: What’s Going On
The Blue Zones are notorious around the world for their secrets to healthier, happier and longer lives. That said, experts predict the decline of the Nicoya Blue Zone means that it will fade out within the next 20 years.
You only have to look at the numbers to realise the severity of the issue. There were 180,000 centenarians in 2004 — now there are just 20,000.
What’s happening? There are concerns when it comes to increased obesity rates and stress levels, as well as the sedentary lifestyles of the residents. Luis Rosero-Bixby at the University of Costa Rica says changing demographics due to generational evolutions could play a part, but even the experts are stumped.
There is evidence to suggest Alajuela may emerge as a potential longevity spot due to the lower death rates for older residents in certain areas. More investigations are needed to confirm this, though.
Outlets to Help Conservation Efforts
To conserve Nicoya as a Blue Zone, promoting the benefits of traditional lifestyles, dietary habits and responsible tourism can boost the health and wellness of its people.
There are also some organisations you can personally get behind, wherever you are in the world.
Asociación Península de Nicoya Zona Azul
Created in 2017 by journalist Jorge Vindas, Asociación Península de Nicoya Zona Azul aims to help the centenarian and older population of the Nicoya Blue Zone minimise economic difficulties and improve their quality of life. Asociación Península makes frequent visits to study and check on those over 90 years old.
Contributions can provide residents with essentials like food and personal care products. In addition, they can go towards remodelling houses to ensure comfort, whether it’s expanding a bathroom or covering a ground floor.
Blue Zones Store
Dan Buettner and his leadership team run the Blue Zones website where they educate people about Nicoya and tell the stories of the centenarians. They also have the Blue Zones Store, where you can buy an array of merchandise, from books to t-shirts, and food to teas. With every purchase made, they donate to the Nicoya Blue Zone conservation efforts.
Blue Zones Nicoya
Lastly, Blue Zones Nicoya is a business that sells local produce, such as coffee, tea and honey, generating direct and indirect jobs for the community. They work closely with small farmers in the area to support the development of crops and provide a steady income.
Blue Zones Nicoya is currently looking after the centennial population through the Centenarios Project. This is where part of the income received from product sales gets donated to Asociación Península de Nicoya Zona Azul.
The project is dedicated to ensuring the needs of Nicoyan centenarians are met, whether in terms of nutritional supplements, mobilisation or healthcare.
All three of these causes understand that Nicoyan centenarians are an example to follow. Studies show that if we find ways to give back to others, we can experience health benefits like lower blood pressure, reduced stress and higher levels of happiness.
So, what does this mean? In short, helping the Nicoya Blue Zone conservation efforts will not only improve the longevity and wellbeing of its population, but your own longevity and wellbeing too.
