Today’s Features

Our environment plays an important role in our quest to age better. Today you’ll find out how longevity-friendly your city is and what you can do to improve it.

It also seems appropriate to hear from Frank Lloyd Wright who spent his career making beautiful places to live and work. Fun fact about him - he had so many ideas for new architectural designs in his 90’s that he decided he couldn’t afford time to sleep anymore. So he didn’t. Just one of the many interesting things to learn on his estate tour in Spring Green, WI.

The Top 10 Best and Worst Longevity-Friendly Cities in the U.S.

How much does your zip code affect your ability to live a longer, healthier life? As it turns out, where you live can play a significant role in how well you age. Let's explore the cities that are leading the charge in promoting longevity, those that could use a health boost, and the up-and-comers making impressive strides.

The Longevity Leaders

1. San Francisco, CA

2. Honolulu, HI 

3. Seattle, WA

4. San Jose, CA

5. Arlington, VA

6. Madison, WI

7. Provo-Orem, UT

8. Boston, MA

9. San Diego, CA

10. Minneapolis, MN

What makes these cities the cream of the crop? They're not just postcard-pretty (though many of them are); they're health powerhouses. These urban centers boast low obesity rates, high physical activity levels, and top-notch healthcare systems.

Residents enjoy abundant green spaces, farmers markets bursting with fresh produce, and a culture that prioritizes wellness. With walkable neighborhoods and efficient public transportation, staying active is a breeze. Plus, strong community engagement keeps seniors socially connected and intellectually stimulated.

The Longevity Laggards

1. Detroit, MI

2. Brownsville, TX

3. Laredo, TX

4. Hialeah, FL

5. Newark, NJ

6. Memphis, TN

7. Lubbock, TX

8. Glendale, AZ

9. Birmingham, AL

10. New Orleans, LA

While these cities have their charms, they face challenges when it comes to promoting longevity. Higher obesity rates, limited access to quality healthcare, and fewer recreational facilities contribute to their lower rankings.

Environmental concerns, such as poor air quality, also play a role. Many of these areas struggle with higher poverty rates among seniors and limited access to healthy food options, creating obstacles for those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Moving Up on the List

Not all cities are content with the status quo. Some have made remarkable strides in recent years, proving that positive change is possible.

Provo-Orem, Utah, has climbed the ranks thanks to its strong sense of community and access to natural beauty.

Madison, Wisconsin, has upped its game with a pedestrian-friendly layout and excellent healthcare.

Iowa City, Iowa, boasts an outstanding health system and high public transportation ridership.

Salt Lake City, Utah, combines natural splendor with cultural attractions and high employment rates for older adults.

And Durham-Chapel Hill, North Carolina, shines with top-tier hospitals and a culture of volunteerism.

These cities have focused on key areas to improve their longevity-friendly status: enhancing healthcare access and quality, fostering community engagement, providing educational opportunities, expanding recreational facilities, ensuring economic stability, and improving public transportation.

How Does Your City Stack Up?

Don't see your hometown on either list? No worries! You can use these criteria to evaluate your own city's longevity potential. Consider factors like:

- Access to quality healthcare and health insurance coverage

- Availability of parks, gyms, and other recreational facilities

- Air quality and environmental health

- Walkability and public transportation options

- Community engagement opportunities

- Access to fresh, healthy food (take advantage of those farmers markets!)

- Economic opportunities for seniors

By assessing these factors, you can get a sense of how your city supports healthy aging. And remember, even if your area isn't a longevity superstar yet, individual choices still play a huge role in how we age. So keep moving, eating well, and staying connected – no matter where you call home!

We’re excited to head to our local farmers market on Saturday and to the Madison, WI farmers market next weekend! (featured in the image above.)

This is a good reminder to also take advantage of the great trails we have around us in Minneapolis. Time to get the bikes out ….

Be Timeless,

Mary and John

Publishers, AgeBetter.news