By University of Phoenix
People are not willing to make positive lifestyle changes now, such as quitting smoking, to live well in later years
PHOENIX, Sept. 19, 2018 – University of Phoenix today announced that 59 percent 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 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.
“According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the 85 and over population is projected to more than double from 6.4 million in 2016 to 14.6 million in 2040 (a 129 percent increase)[1], and our survey findings may indicate that people are not seriously planning for and considering changes they can make now to live well as they age,” said Kelly Price Noble, DHA, program chair for the College of Health Professions at University of Phoenix. “People are generally healthier and living longer than ever before, which requires forethought and planning to realize long-term quality of life. This could mean giving up bad habits, such as smoking, or creating a financial plan that will sustain you through your later years.”
U.S. adults indicated that, if certain variables were met, they would like to live to 100. These include:
The Disconnect: Lifestyle Changes US Adults Are Not Willing to Make to Live to 100
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:
While some people say they are not willing to make some of the lifestyle changes listed above, were they to live to be 100, they would be concerned about various quality of life aspects that correlate to positive lifestyle changes. Top concerns include:
“People are looking for guarantees but may not be willing to make changes, such as pursuing continued education to keep the mind sharp,” said Dr. Price Noble. “Be proactive and take advantage of opportunities that exist to educate yourself, especially while you are healthy and well. Also, for those interested in pursuing education on the subject, University of Phoenix offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration with courses in lifespan management, as well as a Master of Health Administration with relevant course materials.”
Dr. Price Noble’s Tips for Living Well at 100
To view a visual representation of the data, click here.
Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of University of Phoenix on Aug. 14-16, 2018, among 2,022 US adults aged 18 and older. Figures for gender, age, race/ethnicity, household income, investable assets, education, household size, employment status, marital status, and region were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. For complete survey methodology, please contact Amanda Barchilon.
About University of Phoenix®
University of Phoenix is innovating to help working adults move efficiently from education to careers in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant and engaging courses, and interactive learning can help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit phoenix.edu
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