The year 2011 marked when the first wave of boomers hit 65 years of age, and on average they can expect to live to the age of 83 [source: Harvard School of Public Health].

American boomers are expected to live longer than any previous generation. In addition to living longer, boomers are also likely to remain independent and live in their own homes longer, as well.

These days, prescription medications are available for any malady (especially if you consider brittle eyelashes and the like to be a malady). Whether it is pain relief, high cholesterol, erectile dysfunction or any number of other conditions, there is a pill available that can take care of it.

Between 1996 and 2006, there was about a 25 percent increase in the number of people between the ages of 55 and 64 who received more than five prescriptions during a hospital visit [source: Elliott]. Heavy use of prescription drugs can lead to dependence on and abuse of prescription drugs, which are in fact, the most abused controlled substance [source: Hille].

Whether it is about losing weight, lowering blood pressure, or increasing energy and longevity, doctors and researchers have long touted the benefits of regular exercise. This message has not been lost on the boomers, who have over the years helped several exercise “fads” go mainstream, such as jogging, aerobics and neighbourhood fitness gyms.

One study showed that active people enjoyed 16 additional years of healthy living than did sedentary people [AARP]. Exercise also seems to delay effects of dementia down the road, as well as improve the functioning of joints.

While baby boomers are living longer than any previous generation, they also have the dubious distinction of having the highest rates of obesity for their age bracket than any other generation. In 1994, 31 percent of those between the ages of 55 and 64 were obese; by 2002, the rate had climbed to 39 percent [source: Trust for America’s Health].

Not only are baby boomers more obese than the previous generation, they became more obese at an earlier age, and women in their 50s are the most likely to be obese [source: Trust for America’s Health].

Boomers have a lot to gain by losing a little. Many already have obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Recent research indicates that an average reduction of 3.74 pounds (1.7 kilograms) per person would result in 178,000 fewer cases of coronary heart disease and 890,000 fewer diabetics [source: Goodwin].

One study even found that adults between ages 60 and 74 were four times more likely to be depressed if they were obese [source: Pappas]. And obesity and aging joints is not a good mix, meaning that creaking knees will suffer more wear and tear when holding up someone who enjoys an extra trip back to the buffet table.

In this section I will share valuable information and advice to help you live the long happy life you deserve and much more..

God Bless with Gratitude and Love

Dewvy ❤️❤️❤️