Seniors are living longer and are more active. Home Instead Senior Care helps them live independent and active lives.
That’s good news! According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average life expectancy in the United States has reached 78 years, up from 77.7 in 2006. Although the life expectancy rate in the United States is low compared to other industrialized countries (for instance, Canada and Japan), many Americans can look forward to living longer than their parents.
And, not only are people living longer, people are also continuing to lead active lives. Dr. Gary Kennedy, director of geriatric psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, N.Y., notes that not only are people living longer, they’re living better. He says, “Seniors are healthier, more active and economically better off than they ever have been.”
The five leading causes of death are heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lower respiratory diseases and accidents. These causes account for 64 percent of all deaths. Nearly half the deaths in 2007 (48.5 percent) resulted from heart disease and cancer. However, fewer people overall died from heart disease-related problems like stroke, diabetes and high blood pressure.
“The risk of dying has dropped to a record low level, and life expectancy has reached a record high,” said Arialdi M. Minino, a statistician at the CDC’s Center for Health Statistics, Division of Vital Statistics. “Ever since the 1960s, the death rate has been decreasing in the United States.” Fewer deaths from heart disease, stroke and cancer are driving the trend, he said.
By 2050, it is projected the number of Americans over 65 will climb to over 80 million. And, seniors over the age of 85 are the fastest growing segment of the over 65 population. Health care expenses is certainly a concern. Seniors aged 65 to 84 spent about $5,000 per year on health costs, while those over the age of 85 spent $16,000. The burden of health care costs is greater for lower and middle-income seniors than for those of higher incomes.
While living longer is generally a positive thing, increased longevity comes along with increased risk of certain illnesses and disorders. Seniors who have good health and habits should fair significantly well. Good nutrition and exercise will make the extra golden years more enjoyable.
Home Instead Senior Care of Sonoma County helps seniors of all ages live in their own homes or independent or assisted living facilities longer by providing a host of homecare services such as medication reminders, transportation, companionship, light housekeeping. For a free homecare assessment, please call our Sonoma County office at 707.586.1516.
