Dr. Dawn Harper: Health, Longevity, and Lessons from Blue Zones

Dr. Dawn Harper is a name many of us know from her 20 years in the media, not least her role as a presenter on Channel 4’s BAFTA-winning Embarrassing Bodies. But beyond the cameras, Dr. Harper has spent decades as an NHS GP, a career that has shaped not only her medical expertise but also her personal philosophy on health, aging, and living well.

Reflecting on her own journey, Dawn admits, “So you know, I’m nearly 62 and when I was a junior doctor, 65 was the age people were admitted under the geriatric team. That means in three years, I’d have been considered geriatric in the old days. I find that utterly horrific because, honestly, I still feel 20 half the time!” she says with a laugh.

This perspective on aging has shaped much of Dawn’s work, both professionally and personally. “When I started my career, I felt like I wasn’t working for the National Health Service. It was more like the ‘National Sick Service’—we treated people when they were already poorly. Over the years, though, I’ve seen a real shift toward preventative care. Today, I genuinely feel I’m part of a health service,” she explains.

She points out how early detection has revolutionised healthcare outcomes, particularly for cancer. “Whatever type of cancer it is, we know that the earlier it’s picked up, the better the outcome. That’s true of so many diagnoses. Early intervention makes a huge difference,” she says.

This growing emphasis on preventative medicine has inspired Dawn’s own interest in longevity. “I’ve always been curious about why some people are housebound in their 60s while others are still playing golf in their 90s. Some of it is genetics—you can’t do much about that—but there’s so much more to it,” she shares.

From the NHS to Blue Zones

Dawn’s curiosity led her to explore Blue Zones—regions of the world where people live exceptionally long, healthy lives. These areas include Okinawa in Japan, Ikaria in Greece, and Sardinia in Italy, among others. Meeting centenarians in these communities had a profound impact on her.

“When I went to Acciaroli, a village near Naples, I was amazed. The nearest hospital is miles away, and there are no nursing homes. I met Giuseppe, an absolute character—he’s in his 90s, but he gets up every morning, walks to the town square, plays cards with his friends, and, yes, probably starts on the red wine before lunch!” Dawn recounts, her admiration evident.

She adds, “These people aren’t just existing; they’re living vibrant, fulfilling lives. It’s not about high-tech healthcare. It’s about a lifestyle that prioritises movement, social connections, and fresh, unprocessed food. It’s a lesson for all of us.”

Dawn acknowledges how her experiences abroad have influenced her own lifestyle. “I’ve always been into preventative health—it’s part of what drew me to weight management work. But these Blue Zones remind you how much our environment shapes our choices. Here in the UK, we live in what I call an ‘obesogenic society.’ It’s easier to be unhealthy than healthy. That’s not about blaming individuals; it’s about recognising the systemic barriers to living well.”

I’ve also had the privilege of interviewing inspiring centenarians for my book “Live Well to 101”, those who’ve embraced this mindset. One gentleman, Jock, now 101, radiated positivity and still rode his motorbike daily into his nineties. His advice? Stay active, stay engaged, and above all, stay optimistic. 

The Role of Personalisation in Medicine

Another key theme in Dawn’s reflections is the importance of personalised care. “Early in my career, I questioned why we’d prescribe the same dose of paracetamol to a small 16-year-old girl as we would to a 40-year-old man twice her size. It didn’t make sense then, and it doesn’t now,” she says.

This belief has deepened as she’s explored the complexities of conditions like diabetes. “I was diagnosed as pre-diabetic over 10 years ago, and recently my levels tipped into the diabetic range. I eat healthily, exercise regularly, and my BMI is 19.5, so it was puzzling. I started using a continuous glucose monitor to understand what was happening—and it’s fascinating. For example, I can eat carbs, but bread sends my blood sugar soaring. It’s a stark reminder that one size doesn’t fit all.”

Dawn is particularly excited about the future of personalised medicine. “We’re moving toward treatments and lifestyle advice tailored to the individual. It’s not just about what’s right for a population but what’s right for you,” she explains.

This philosophy underpins her approach as a GP. “General practice is as much an art as it is a science. It’s about taking the evidence and tailoring it to the individual—not just their medical needs, but their expectations for life. For one patient, arthritis in the knee might mean they struggle to run marathons, while another might just want to be able to garden without pain. The science is the same, but the conversations and solutions are entirely different,” she says.

Discovering the Charm of Rangeford Villages: A Path to Vibrant, Healthy Living for the 60+ Community

Living in the picturesque Cotswolds, I’ve always been drawn to the beauty of nature and the sense of connection within a community. So, when I was invited to explore Rangeford Villages, I was intrigued. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the modern, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offered a selection of healthy, delicious meals, and the amenities—from the gym and swimming pool to the stunning gardens—were thoughtfully designed for an active, enriching lifestyle.

What stood out to me most, though, was how these villages create a true sense of belonging. For those of us who’ve been lifelong dog lovers, the fact that you can bring your pet along (provided you already have one) is a lovely touch, embracing the companionship that pets bring into our lives. I’ve adored dogs since I was a teenager, back when I’d volunteer at the Claverton Down  RSPCA in Bath—trekking across a disused quarry just to care for them! It’s these kinds of meaningful connections, whether with animals or other people, that truly enhance our quality of life.

Rangeford Villages uniquely embody this spirit of connection. Unlike traditional care homes, these communities empower residents to maintain independence while offering an array of activities and social opportunities right on their doorstep. Whether you want to tend to a greenhouse, enjoy a brisk walk through the grounds, or join fitness classes, it’s all available—but entirely on your own terms.

This blend of independence and social engagement resonates deeply with me. Like many of the older generation, they worry that leaving their home means losing autonomy. But communities like Rangeford offer a middle ground—ensuring social interaction, support, and vibrant living while keeping your own front door, a key symbol of independence.

Lorna, a wonderful woman in her 90s, drives herself around in her little Mercedes and joins every class she can find. It’s this zest for life that we should all aspire to.

What’s truly brilliant about Rangeford Villages, and the reason why I became a Health & Wellbeing Ambassador for Rangeford Villages, is how they’re designed to support these choices. They allow residents to age with dignity, preventing the isolation that can creep in when someone loses mobility or experiences a fall. They provide access to activities that maintain physical and mental health, fostering core strength and confidence to keep exploring life’s opportunities.

As I look ahead to visiting Rangeford’s Surrey location soon, I’m reminded of the importance of creating environments where older generations can thrive—not just exist. It’s about giving people the tools to live well, celebrate life’s milestones, and feel a sense of purpose and joy every day. Rangeford Villages is paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for aging communities.

DISCOVER: rangefordvillages.co.uk