 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. life expectancy has risen to 78 years and 2 months for babies born in 2009. On average, life expectancy is now 75.5 for males and 80.5 for females. Yet many are unaware of why life span has risen over time. Dr. Howard S. Friedman and Dr. Leslie R. Martin of the University of California in Riverside conducted a 20-year study that chronicled eight decades of life for 1,500 Americans. After researching death certificates, scientific surveys, and collaborating with other researches, they found two key traits for longevity: prudence and persistence. "The findings clearly revealed that the best childhood personality predictor of longevity was conscientiousness - the qualities of prudent, persistent, and well-organized people." When the researchers were asked about the single strongest social predictor of long life, their unhesitating answer was a strong social network. Caregivers from home care agencies can provide companionship and assist with social interactions and transportation to and from social events. Read more at tinyurl.com/longevityfactors. |
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Dear Katy
By Kate Dougherty, Certified Senior Advisor
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Dear Katy - I'm looking into home care for my mother during the holiday weekend. Can a home care agency provide care at the facility? If so, are there additional costs during holidays?
P.M., Union City, CA.
Dear P.M. - Yes, home care agencies work in conjunction with facilities at all times. Care can be provided during holidays and weekends, but make sure you arrange care in advance to find the right caregiver. Additional costs will vary based on the agency, but many will charge more for major holidays. The cost is usually 1.5 times the normal rate on the actual holiday (not the entire weekend), as caregivers are paid time and a half.
Dear Katy- My father goes to church three times a week. Can a caregiver stay with him during recreational activities?
D.F., Prescott, AZ
Dear D.F. - Companionship is a major part of non-medical home care. In fact, it is highly recommended that caregivers assist with hobbies, activities, or events to strengthen the relationship. Even if your father doesn't necessarily want assistance with recreational activities, his caregivers can help him with daily errands, light housekeeping, meal preparation, and other home care activities.
(Submit your questions to kdougherty@professionalhc.com. Follow her on twitter)
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5 Reasons Life Spans are Increasing
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- Better living - Seniors are healthier, more active and economically better off than they've ever been.
- Better nutrition - despite our propensity to consume "junk food," in general people are better nourished than ever before.
- Better medical treatment - Medical research, procedures, and treatments have improved dramatically. Infant mortality is much lower than it was historically.
- Vaccination campaigns - There have been mass campaigns, vaccine-related events, and broadcasts that have helped prevent or even eradicate diseases.
- Public health measures - Public health programs, laws and disease-related campaigns have become more widespread and available. For example, awareness campaigns have contributed to decreased tobacco use.
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The Longevity Project Book
Researchers drew on an eight-decade-long study of 1,500 people to learn about who lives long, healthy lives and why.
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UltraLongevity Quiz
Take a 21-question quiz to determine how fast you're aging.
More Info
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... according to the Longevity Project, genes constitute only 1/3 of the factors leading to long life?
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