Is It Worth Living To 100?

A new survey by the University of Phoenix finds that 59% of U.S. adults say there are too many unknowns about old age to make it worth living to 100-years-old. September is Healthy Aging Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the positive aspects of growing older and making the most of golden years, and the University of Phoenix is seeking to understand how U.S. adults feel about healthy aging and helping them recognize what they can do now to live well later. U.S. adults indicated that, if certain variables were met, they would like to live to 100. These include:

• If I were guaranteed to be of sound body and mind – 85%
• If my spouse, partner and/or loved ones were still alive – 79%
• If I didn’t physically look 100 years old – 71%

Despite saying that they would be willing to live to 100, many people are unwilling to take steps toward maintaining a healthy lifestyle. People note that they would not do the following now to prepare for living longer:

• Quit smoking – 81%
• Go back to school/pursue more education to keep the mind active – 77%
• Start saving money for more later in life care – 45%
• Stay in contact with family/friends to maintain strong relationships – 48%
• Maintain a healthy sleep schedule – 45%
• Exercise more often – 38%
• Eat healthier – 36%

While some people say they are not willing to make some of the lifestyle changes, were they to live to be 100, they would be concerned about the various quality of life aspects that correlate to positive lifestyle changes. Top concerns include:

• Physical health (i.e. having a strong, functional body, and the ability to perform daily activities) – 86% strongly/somewhat concerned
• Mental health (i.e. good emotional and psychological wellbeing) – 82% strongly/somewhat concerned
• Financial health (i.e. having enough income to pay for regular or other expenses) – 82% strongly/somewhat concerned