Today there are more than 37 million people age 65 and over, and that number is expected to rise to more than 70 million by 2030.

Americans are living longer than ever before, according to current statistics. In 1900, life expectancy was approximately 47 years. Now Americans born in 2007 can expect to live, on average, to age 78. The average woman lives another 20 years while the average man lives an additional 17 years.

Regardless of how long you live, time takes a toll on the organs and systems in your body. How and when this occurs is unique to you. Some typical changes to expect as you age may include:

€ Hypertension #- high blood pressure

€ Muscles, tendons and joints generally lose some strength and flexibility

€ Diabetes and other chronic conditions

€ A less efficient memory

€ Common eye problems - Cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration

€ Changes to teeth, skin, nails and hair

€ Changes with sleep habits and weight maintenance

Staying healthy

Researchers say it's never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle, which will improve how you age, and there are many things you can do to stay healthy and active.

For example, if you quit smoking now, your risk of heart disease begins to fall almost immediately. Health-related behaviors such as eating a variety of fruits and vegetables and getting out for a daily walk are ways you can begin preparing now for your later years. Regular physical exercise greatly reduces your risk for colon cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Physical activity also helps to control weight, contributes to healthy bones and muscles and helps to relieve the pain of arthritis.

Elane Daly is director of Health and Human Services for Cayuga County. She can

be reached at 253-1560 or cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us

Activities for active seniors

There are several local opportunities to participate in physical activities and attend health-related informational sessions

during Active Aging Week. Some events include:

€ The Heart Expo at Auburn Memorial Hospital - Offers free

cholesterol testing, blood pressure checks, pulmonary function, food and vendor exhibits from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22.

Also, the hospital is offering a free lecture on “Exercising to

Prevent Falls” as part of AMH's “Medically Speaking Series”

at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25.

€ The Family Health Network of CNY (located at the Moravia

Fire Hall) - Sponsoring a Diabetes Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26. Call 497-9066 for more information.

€ Mercy's Medical Day Program recreational activities - Call

Judy Greco at 253-0351 ext. 244 for a free guest day pass. You

may also ask about the Alzheimer's Association Workshop,

“Maintain Your Brain” scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26.

€ Auburn YMCA's America On the Move (downtown Auburn) #- Walking program starts on Thursday, Sept. 27. Sign-up at www.ymca.net or call 253-5304 for information.

The YMCA is also holding an open house for people aged 50+ from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 24. The schedule includes free use of the facility, 15 minutes of Reiki and massage, open swim, refreshments and door prizes.

In addition, Silver Sneakers meets for yoga, tai chi, aquacise and more.

€ Cato Rec Center (Route 370 in Cato) - Come in for a free day pass if you are a non-member over the age of 50 and/or sign up

for an osteoporosis class, a free blood pressure check, or free trial of an aquatic arthritis class. Call 626-6735 for information.

€ Champions for Life Sports Center (453 Grant Ave in Auburn) - A free day pass will be issued to use fitness equipment and tennis courts, as well as free classes. Call for reservations at 252-9305 and mention Active Aging Week.

€ The Boyle Center - Offering a lecture on “Taking Control of Arthritis: Self-Help Exercise Program” and “Arthritis Tai Chi” in October.