Researchers have combed through data, from the U.S. and other countries, to learn more about the relationship between location and length of life. Results have been inconclusive, but environmental and lifestyle factors do emerge. Should you consider them when you are deciding on your ideal forever home?
What's up with blue zones?
The intriguing concept of blue zones was popularized by Dan Buettner, an explorer and a National Geographic Fellow who led a project to Okinawa, Japan, in 2004. Drawing on demographic work of earlier scientists who had recognized the high number of male centenarians in Sardinia, Italy, Buettner's teams identified other places associated with long lives and their common characteristics. They labeled their top five "blue" zones (because they used blue pens to mark them on their maps): Okinawa; Sardinia; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California.
The scientists observed that those residents surpassed world life expectancy by 10 years. Seeking clues that might connect such far-flung spots, they discovered themes of community support, a diet of locally produced foods and daily exercise. Movement might consist of gardening, walking or chores. A sense of purpose and de-stressing routines also appeared significant. A plant-based diet typically also involved eating earlier in the day.
Specifically, the Greeks consumed olive oil, red wine and copious vegetables; the Sardinians performed heavy farm work into old age; the Okinawans ate soy and practiced tai chi; the Costa Ricans fed on beans and tortillas; and the vegetarian Loma Lindans lived in a tight-knit Seventh Day Adventist community that proscribed smoking, alcohol and caffeine.
However, some of the research has been reevaluated due to insufficient scientific proof. Moreover, life expectancy in Okinawa has subsequently reversed.
U.S. versions of blue zones
Most American retirees are not ready to move as far as Italy or Japan. Researchers have now turned their focus to U.S cities and states. Note that findings vary constantly from year to year and reflect diverse databases — not only do they fluctuate, but they may also encourage false precision. So take the list below with a pinch of salt!
That said, certain states and regions do conform to the blue zone principles. Residents of Vermont support farmers’ markets and exhibit community spirit. Walk scores and pedestrian friendliness rank high in New York. Inhabitants of Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island consume ample fruits and vegetables. People are less active in New Hampshire but sleep a solid seven hours a night. Oregonians are likewise good sleepers. Yet Hawaii, a winning state for centenarians, reports less sleep and walking. In Maine and California, people tend to follow a plant-heavy but diversified diet.
The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute provides the following statistics for life expectancy:
- San Jose/Santa Clara, California (83.3).
- Honolulu (82.4).
- Fort Myers, Florida (82.4).
- Oxnard, California (82.3).
- Los Angeles (82.1).
- Bridgeport/Stamford/Norwalk, Connecticut (82.1).
- San Diego (81.8).
- Denver (81.8).
- Miami/Fort Lauderdale (81.6).
Relocating to bluer-type areas shows significant causal effects. MIT researcher Amy Finkelstein has analyzed Medicare records for 6.3 million beneficiaries from 1999 to 2014. Migrating to New York, San Francisco, Miami and Chicago proved positive, while moving to Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona generated poorer health results. In short, health capital (bad habits like smoking and overeating) accounts for 70% of the difference and location for 15%.
Compiling a checklist
It is easier to find superior medical care near cities or teaching hospitals. Large centers and suburbs also offer access to home care providers. Climate plays a role, too: cold, dry conditions may exacerbate joint pain.
Researchers compare such factors as:
- Ratio of seniors to the overall population.
- Average life expectancy.
- Average retirement income.
- Percentage of seniors in the Medicare program.
- Poverty levels.
- Senior living centers per capita.
- Doctors per capita.
Where you are born impacts life expectancy differently from where you end up. Many original natives of mountain regions, like those in Montana, Utah, Colorado and Wyoming, go on to live long lives. Perhaps fresh air and a rugged spirit promote longevity.
Of course, many factors can affect longevity, such as family history and lifestyle choices. There is no guarantee. (And it's beyond reckoning that Keith Richards is still performing at 80.) However, it may be a good idea to consider how where you settle will affect your life.
Copyright 2024 Industry Newsletters
