Did you know that only one in 10,000 people will live to be 100-years-old? It is estimated that the number of people over 100 years old will reach 110,000 by 2037 and those over 80 will reach six million by that same year.
Living to be 100 is an impressive accomplishment, especially since our average national life expectancy is about 79 years (compared to an average of 82.2 years for comparable countries). September 22 marks National Centenarian’s Day — a day that celebrates those who have reached 100 years old and older.
It was established by Williamsport Nursing Home in Williamsport, Maryland. The day was proclaimed as a time to listen to centenarians as they have so much rich history and wisdom to share. Many assisted living communities and nursing homes celebrate the holiday and you should too. Nationally, a number of groups have been formed to honor our centenarians.
Centenarians are more common in some states and regions in the U.S. than in others. States with the largest populations generally have the most. According to the 2010 Census, California had the largest number of centenarians (5,921), followed by New York, Florida and Texas. Alaska had the fewest centenarians (40), followed by Wyoming (72), Vermont (133) and Delaware (146).
Centenarians also are considerably less diverse than the overall U.S. population. The majority are women, and the 2010 Census revealed that some 82.5 percent of centenarians were white, and 85.7 percent lived in urban areas.
Many centenarians say the secret to a long life is exercise, healthy eating and a good night’s sleep. Studies have shown that staying single increases longevity in women.
Read some advice from centenarians and find out what it takes to become a supercentenarian (age 110 and older).
That is a blessing my uncle will be 100 on October 3 wish I would have known so he would be honored with rest of them his name is William e Connelly