Here is a recent study (May 2011) on grip strength in men and longevity – another reason to maintain strength as we age.
The main results of a study following men for 44 years until their death were that having:
- good muscle strength (high grip strength measurement),
- being physically active,
- not smoking,
- and absence of chronic conditions at the age of 62 years,
- as well as having a long-lived mother
each contributed 1 to 3 years for the length of remaining life.
The same variables also correlated with the likelihood of becoming a centenarian.
These findings expand earlier analyses showing low midlife grip strength predicts an increased risk of disability and death (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3337929/#!po=86.1111).