Live longer, better

Although the overall American population is aging, the nation's death rate declined significantly between 2003 and 2004. Researchers say a number of factors may be at play, such as a mild flu season that year, better medical treatments and improved access to health care. For instance, the death rate from heart disease, the nation's No. 1 killer, has declined each year since 1968.

The death rate has also improved over time because of public health initiatives such as immunization, better dental health, better nutrition, anti-smoking initiatives and new innovations that curb rates of infant mortality. It remains to be seen if advances in health care will be sufficient to counter, in the long term, the health risks of rising rates of obesity, especially among children.

If the death rate continues to fall, there will be a substantially greater demand for services for senior citizens. Although Utah is well-known for its bumper crop of children, Utah seniors make up an increasing share of the state's population. According to the Utah Commission on Aging, Utah is the sixth fastest growing state among the 65-plus population. The state is tied for second in life expectancy, according to the commission.

This longevity will impact health-care needs, retirements, transportation, housing and recreational needs. This longevity will impact government budgets. Depending on an individual's circumstances, some seniors will need to work much later in life because their retirement funds may not last as long as originally anticipated. That may help the work force, which would benefit from an experienced and stable supply of workers.

Obviously, living longer is a different phenomenon than living well. Individuals need to take steps to protect their health and financial well being while they are young to ensure their senior years are enjoyable. According to the state's aging commission, only 16 percent of Utah adults ages 65-74 participate in regular physical activity. The commission notes a direct correlation between inactivity and high health-care costs.

Aging boomers and others should also consider obtaining long-term care insurance. It's a wise investment when one considers that health-care costs for a 65-year-old are, on average, four times greater than health-care costs for a 40-year-old.

The takeaway message here is that in spite of many Americans' unhealthy personal habits, they are living longer. Individuals, government agencies and the private sector need to plan now for that eventuality.