Reaching the age of 100 may become ordinary for most American babies born since 2000, according to a new report. Life expectancy has been steadily increasing in developed countries such as the United States, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada and Japan.
Researchers at the Danish Aging Research Centre at the University of Southern Denmark predict society will stop looking at life in three phases (childhood, adult and old age) and instead start dividing old age into a “third age” (young old age) and a “fourth age” (oldest old).
Sign on San Diego recently looked at what this means. While there isn’t much data on health of people over age 85, many are optimistic that earlier detection and better treatment of conditions like cancer and heart disease will make life healthier for people in their “fourth age.” The New England Centenarian Study found that one-fourth of 169 centenarians studied were free of any significant cognitive disorders. About 15 percent lived independently in their own homes, some held jobs and most were uncommonly healthy until the end of their lives.
The New England study found that most centenarians share several characteristics: emotional resilience, self-sufficiency, intellectual activity, a good sense of humor, religious beliefs, strong connections with other people, low blood pressure, appreciation of simple pleasures, a zest for life, don’t currently smoke or drink heavily, may play musical instruments, and follow an anti-inflammatory diet.
Researchers involved with the New England study have developed the “Living to 100 Life Expectancy Calculator” Web site that uses scientific data to estimate how old a person will live to be based on answers to 40 questions related to health and family history.
An increased life expectancy will also lead to an increase in population, especially in the sector of older adults. The elderly will soon out-number younger and middle-aged people, so there will be greater demand for care and assistance in living out the rest of their lives comfortably and healthily. That is what companies like Home Instead Senior Care are here for; we are the leading home care company in the world who will help your loved one live at home.
Home Instead Senior Care will provide outstanding caregivers to help your loved one with personal care, incidental travel, companionship, medication reminders, light housekeeping, and even meal preparation. To learn more, call 248-203-2273 or visit www.homeinstead.com. Home Instead Senior Care is the world’s trusted source of in-home non-commercial personal care and companionship for seniors. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. And remember, to us, it’s personal.
