Where you live matters
The report shows people living in Hawaii will live the longest. Those who are 65 years old are expected to live another 21 years, with all but five years in good health. Meanwhile, seniors living in Mississippi fared the worst. This demographic is expected to live another 17.5 years, with 7 of those years in declining health.
While the CDC says life expectancy for newborns is on the rise, currently at 79 years, the study shows specific geographic areas lack the elements needed for a healthy lifestyle.
The study’s authors say the findings aren’t surprising. People in southern states typically have a poor diet, less education and deal with issues associated with poverty.
“What ultimately matters is not just the length of life but the quality of life,” Matt Stiefel, who oversees population health research for Kaiser Permanente, told USA Today.
In other words, seniors living in Mississippi won’t instantly live longer by moving to Hawaii. It’s not easy to change decades of routines.
Other findings from the CDC report include:
- Overall, Americans who make it to 65 are likely to live another 19 years.
- Women will live longer than men, by about two years.
- African Americans have a shorter lifespan, compared to Caucasians, by about three years.
- The healthiest states for retirement-aged people: Hawaii, Florida, Connecticut, and Minnesota.
- The least healthiest states for retirement-aged people: Mississippi, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Alabama.
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