Longevity is not well understood but certain trends and indicators are worthy of mention. Longevity is a consequence of genetics and life style choices. We cannot change the genetic hand we have been dealt but we can endeavor to adjust our approach to controlling what we can. Here is what some men and women of science have noted:

o The old saying "Moderation in all things", has some validity when it comes to sleep. People who sleep between 6 and 7 hours at night tend to live longer than those who get less or even more sleep.

o People deemed optimistic have a 50% decreased risk of early death than pessimistic individuals. Optimists generally are less stressed, better equipped to handle adversity, and have lower blood pressures than pessimists.

o People having frequent positive intimate experiences live longer than those who don't.

o Owning and interacting with a pet decreases loneliness and depression and encourages experiences of joy and exercise which support longevity.

o People with higher incomes tend to live longer. Those people who manage stress well live longer. Nonsmokers live longer.

o Those who "eat right” and include antioxidants in their diets live longer.

o Married folks generally live longer than never married singles.

o Those who get daily exercise, laugh often, and control their weight live longer.

o People who manage or avoid stress live longer. Dr. David Fein, Director of the Princeton Longevity Center in New Jersey, said "stress kills more people than just about anything else”.

Control what you can. Live long and prosper.

WESTMORELAND COUNTY
AREA AGENCY ON AGINGINFORMATION LINE
200 SOUTH MAIN STREETGREENSBURG, PA 15601
CONTACT: MARK HANNA 724-830-4444
1-800-442-8000