Tom Perl, the founder of the New England Centenarian Study at Boston University, told Time magazine that 85 percent of people over 100 years old are women. While there are always genetic and geographic abnormalities, women tend to outlive their male counterparts by five years, according to the current life expectancy averages of 76 years for men and 81 years for women. Generally, women tend to outlive men around the world, and here are some of the reasons why.
Better Cardiovascular Health
In many cultures and communities, heart disease is the most common cause of death. According to the World Health Organization, around 17 million people die every year from heart disease and its side effects. A study funded by the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Open Laboratory has determined estrogen seems to reduce a woman’s risk of heart disease until menopause.
Helping a senior maintain cardiovascular health can be challenging. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Opelika, AL, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.
Enhanced Immune System
While more research is needed, doctors have discovered sex hormones such as estrogen might also impact immune health. Women who have higher estrogen levels produce more white blood cells known as lymphocytes. These cells are the first line of defense against countless diseases and illnesses. Many of these benefits seem to disappear when a woman goes through menopause and produces less estrogen.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Different Lifestyle Habits
Women tend to engage in fewer activities that are hazardous to their health. In addition to staying safer during their younger years, women are less likely to smoke cigarettes and abuse alcohol, which drastically reduces the risk of health complications such as lung cancer, oral cancer, and emphysema.
Additional Theories
Even numbers collected from hundreds of years ago seem to confirm that historically, women have lived longer than men. Lifestyle habits and genetics definitely play a major role, but it appears biological differences are also important. Many of the unique hormones and chemicals women produce in higher quantities act as additional layers of protection during the childbearing years. As people grow older, mortality rates between the two sexes slowly begin to balance out.
Making healthy lifestyle choices can help increase longevity for both genders. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Opelika, AL, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you need compassionate professional home care for your loved one, call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (334) 744-7100.