Live To 80 Or More? Seriously? Live Here And You May!

There is no doubt about it America is aging. Our population is getting older. Okay, understood we all age, but our younger population isn't keeping up.

According to the United States Census Bureau, "an examination of changes in the age make-up of the population from April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2023 revealed notable growth in the older adult population."

But here is the question. How old would you hope to be? 77.5 years is the life expectancy in the U.S. today, and I'm pretty sure you aren't sitting around saying okay that's enough, I'm ready to go.

Wouldn't you like to live longer? Sure you would, and according to a population map posted on Reddit, there are lots of places in the country that people are living much longer, and that includes right here in river city, Grand Rapids.

Actually, Kent and Ottawa counties showed a life expectancy of more than 80+ years. Who knew!

Other Michigan longevity areas are Northern Michigan and a few counties in central and southeast Michigan.

What's up? Why so?

Better health care for one thing. Living in an area like Kent and Ottawa counties with access to world class health care and treatments certain contributes to a longer, happy and healthier life.

And, according to an article in Psychology Today, it's even more simple, stupid. We don’t die young.

The article said "we used to battle killer diseases such as measles, whooping cough and similar, but due to mass vaccination, and better public sanitation, better housing, better nutrition, we're living longer."  Also, education may play a part, because a better educated population has shown to have a longer life expectancy.

Keep up the good work West Michigan. I'll be looking for my invitation to your 85th birthday party!