"Replacement Parts"
Senior Focus - November 1997
More people are living long, healthy lives.
In the United States, there are currently 56,000 centenarians, and that number is expected to increase to more than 2 million over the next 70 years. Advances in public health, breakthroughs in medical technology and better preventive health are chief reasons.
Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine’s Huffington Center on Aging in Houston are learning more about aging. They have pinpointed a genetic program that tells the body’s cells to stop dividing, an important finding in determining how to control genes and improve the quality of life as we age.
While "good genes" can impact how well and how long you will live, lifestyle choices might be just as important. What you do in your 20s and 30s has an effect on your 70s and 80s. But it is never too late to make changes.
One of the most important aspects of successful old age -- staying active -- has several positive results, both physically and mentally. Aerobic exercise helps the body fight disease, strengthens muscles and works the heart. Take a daily walk, play tennis with a friend or enjoy a round of golf. Mental activities, like reading and talking with others, stimulate the brain and help people stay sharp mentally.
Other steps to increase longevity include:
 | Eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet. |
| Avoid tobacco products. |
| Maintain social connections to family and friends. |
| Wear a seat belt while driving. |
| See your doctor for cancer prevention and screening for risk factors for atherosclerosis and other diseases. |
Living to be 100 years old is a realistic goal, and an active, connected and healthy lifestyle can go a long way toward getting you there.
