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Aging Healthfully, Aging Young Only a few generations ago, the average lifespan was less than 40 years. Today, many people can expect to live well into their 80's or even 90's. Perhaps the adage "life begins at 40" should be changed to "life really begins at 60." Living longer often means facing more challenges, particularly where our health is concerned. The good news is that you can take more control over your life and your health. No matter what your age, healthy changes do make a difference. For example, a 65-year-old who quits smoking reduces the increased risk of heart disease by one half after only one year. Some physical changes with aging are inevitable. However, many aging authorities say that the majority of so-called "age-related" illnesses are related to poor lifestyle habits – inactivity, poor diet, cigarette smoking – rather than natural changes. We've all known people who looked and acted 20 years younger than someone else the same age. What makes one person "age" more than another? Experts tell us aging is affected primarily by two factors: heredity and lifestyle.
Only your doctor can diagnose and treat a medical problem. ©2003 The StayWell Company, 1100 Grundy Lane, San Bruno, CA 94066-3030. www.staywell.com 800 333-3032. All rights reserved. |
