YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — You may have noticed First News covering a large number of people celebrating 100th birthdays for a couple months now. It’s more than just a trend: it’s growing into quite a phenomenon.
Age is more than a number, but sometimes the number is important. Living to be 100 is a major milestone, and it is also becoming more common.
“Definitely an increase in centenarians, and that projection will be an increase over the next 30 years of probably multiple of four,” said Dr. Dan Van Dussen, a YSU professor who studies the older population.
There are 101,000 centenarians in America according to the Census Bureau. It’s estimated to grow to 422,000 over the next 30 years. Dr. Van Dussen cites a good work-life balance and other simple keys to living longer.
“A few things that will increase your odds: eating well, exercise, sleep, get your vaccinations,” he said.
Dr. Van Dussen believes the 100-plus group has benefited from a better Polio vaccine that came out in 1952, improved screening for chronic diseases, and simply better sanitation. He believes the right mindset plays a big role too.
“And then people tend to have been happy for pretty much their entire lives, kind of a continuity from when you were 1816 if you’re more of a outgoing, happy person at 18 and 16 and at 90 or 100 you’re going to just have that many more years of experience being happy and out going,” he said.
Youngstown’s population age 85 and over leads the state as 2.5% of the population. Statewide it’s at 1.9%
The percentage of those age 85+ by Ohio regions:
- Youngstown: 2.5%
- Cleveland: 2.3%
- Cambridge: 2.2%
The future looks bright for reaching 100 and it may not even be such a big deal in the future.
“I could see a day coming when you’re doing 105s, maybe 110s,” Dr. Van Dussen said.
The average life expectancy in the USA is 77.5.
