Increasing Life Span Means Reevaluating Health Plans

More Americans are living longer. While strides in healthcare are amazing it can also mean more costs.

Seattle, WA (I-Newswire) October 24, 2012 - American’s are living longer than they ever have. Thanks to improved sanitation, hygiene, nutrition, modern medical care, and advanced treatment options the American lifespan has dramatically increased.

Today, the average life expectancy for an American is nearly 80, a far cry from the mere 30 years of age for Americans in 1776. The fastest growing population in America is adults 85 years or older. 65 used to be considered old, now it’s bracketed in the upper middle age category. American’s are continually redefining age rules and pushing the average lifespan further and further.

While increased lifespan seems like a great thing, it may also pose a slew of problems down the road. Without assuming responsibilities for personal health, the current increase in lifespan lengthening could mean financial problems for Americans.

If Americans fail to care for their health in the present it could lead to a variety of care requirements later in life and high medical costs. The average American over the age 65 suffers from a myriad of health problems including hypertension, diabetes, and cardiac issues. This one group accounts for one third of all health care spending in the United States and one third of prescription drug use.

American’s have the power to help shape the future. Increasing fitness and health awareness is vital to improving the quality of life for aging Americans. Health and fitness are important aspects to over all wellness and helping to decrease the costs of late life medical care. Staying fit and healthy and being aware of current medical situations will help prepare for the future.