Longevity and What It Means to You

 

Working in Assisted Living means that I am already aware that people are healthier and living longer than ever before, but it was still an eye opener when I read an article in The Seattle Times (July 20, 2009) about the number of people reaching the 100 year mark.

 

We used to chuckle when some one 50 would complain about having a mid-life crisis, and think, middle of what?  You would have to live to be 100 or beyond to be in the middle of anything at 50 or 60.  Well, this isn’t so far fetched any more.  The article written by Hope Yen speculated that the population of centenarians is projected to reach 6 million by mid-century.  This really does push the median age toward 50 and is changing the way we view aging and what it really means to be middle aged or old.

 

Longevity is being attributed to advances in medicine and dietary habits, which has decreased the incidence of heart disease and strokes.  Good genes can’t be discounted, of course, but that has always been a given.  Restorative Exercise Programs, regular meals, social stimulation, and a health care team with an eye toward preventive medicine have all made a huge contribution when it comes to your longevity.

 

The number of people reaching or exceeding 100 is expected to increase from 75,000 to more than 600,000 by mid-century in the

USA

alone.  The implications are considerable, and it will depend on whether you are healthy or not.  Healthy centenarians are not a problem but demented or frail persons can be very costly and this is not something to be taken lightly.  State and Federal governments will be focusing on re-evaluating retirement benefits, age limits on driving and Medicare coverage as the definition of “old” changes.

 

Seniors will be urged more than ever to plan for their futures and to take responsibility for their own health and independent status.  Being involved in your life, your community, and your local government are important.  You need to be sure that you are interested and well represented as you face the possibility of living much longer than you had ever thought possible.