Life Expectancy in the United States
According to the CDC
Life expectancy in the United States has declined from 78.8 years in 2019 to 77.3 years in 2020: the most significant one-year decline since WW II. What are the impacts near term and for the next generation?
Also, the disparity gap measured in 2020 between women and men has now widened. Women are expected to live 5.7 years longer than men. That is an increase of six months.
Contributing Factors
Despite several contributing factors such as income, social safety net, and access to health care, the Coronavirus has played a significant role in this decline. Genetics and the environment also influence the aging process.
What Research Tells us Can Extend Life Expectancy
Researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health updated a previous study that established five habits that can boost life expectancy. The data suggest a potential gain of nearly 11 healthy years for women who maintained these habits and eight healthy years for men.
This updated study recommends implementing five habits into your daily life by middle age to increase your likelihood of enjoying extra years of good health.
The following are the five practices mentioned in the study that may help YOU avoid chronic disease later in life:
- Regular exercise
- Healthy eating
- Avoid smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight
Remember, these numbers are just that – numbers. Many people live an active life into their 90’s or longer. That’s why it is essential to take time to review your weekly routine. Then, adjust and try something different.
That said, you can take some other steps to improve your health and slow down aging.
Here are some suggestions:
- Sit less and move more
- Get more sleep
- Have a life purpose giving you a reason to stay active
- Reduce your stress level
- Meditate, visualize and/or pray
- Keep in touch with family and friends
- Read a book
- Start a personal journal
- Incorporate alternative techniques into your routine, such as affirmations, expressing gratitude, and breathing techniques
- Accept change with a positive mindset
- Expect the unexpected
Set boundaries. Surround yourself with positive people. Everyone has a down day once in a while. Have a list of people you can talk to when needed.
Finally, learn something new. I have a long list of things that I would like to learn. There is not a lot of extra time to cook, but when there is time, I would like to learn more about Asian and middle eastern cooking.
What would you like to learn? It’s never too late!
If you would like guidance or support on your wellness journey or would like to know more about my services, send me a message or call (973) 476-8661.
If stress interferes with your quality of life, why not start with some relaxation techniques?
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Are your activities and daily choices determined by your level of pain?
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It’s never too late to try something new.
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