Age 65, the age of retirement and Social Security, is an artificial line-in-the-sand that Bismark of Germany drew in 1885 and we have not had the courage to change. 

But our lives will be drastically different and longer than any prior generation of 65-year olds in the history of the world.  When Bismark drew the line in the sand, 2% of the population lived to age 65 and then they lived an average of only 2 years.  Today, a 65-year old can expect to live nearly ten years longer than his own parents could have expected when they were 65. 

The average 65-year old can expect to live to age 84.  If you are in the top (best) 20% of health, and many of my readers are, half of you will live to at least age 92--and half longer than that.  Who are these people?  Those who do not smoke, who treat their high blood pressure or high cholesterol, who exercise at least a couple of days a week or walk regularly, and those who eat healthful foods. 

By contrast, the unhealthiest 20% of the 65-year olds will live to an average of age 76.  Who are these people?  They are those with real disease like past heart attacks, those who have not taken care of themselves like smokers, and those who are severely obese (BMI > 35) and now have type-2 diabetes.   

The difference between the top and bottom quintile is huge.  In the coming weeks, I will give you the statistical data supporting these statements.  I will also write about how to best use that time, what provides meaning, how to stay healthy. 

For now, let us remember our shared goal: "to die young as late as possible." 

Stay well.  Have a glass of wine with dinner and dark chocolates for dessert.  Life has never been so promising. 

Dr. Bob