Centenarians and 20-somethings: What age gap? (Part 2)

When Evercare released findings from its fourth annual 100@100 survey in June, they shook things up a bit by comparing beliefs of 20-somethings with centenarians as we examined in Part 1 of this topic. Turns out these two cohorts surprisingly have a lot in common.

Think technology and pop culture belong only to the young? Not quite. Centenarians report using the latest technology to stay connected with friends and family much like the 20-something millennials. Twenty-one percent of centenarians go online, with 12% using the Internet to share photos, 10% using email weekly, 5% watching TV, and 4% downloading music. Additionally, 3% even use Twitter! More than half the centenarians were familiar with Nintendo Wii Fit. 

If given a choice from a list of famous celebrities to have as a dinner guest, Bill Cosby was a top choice among both the centenarians (63%) and the millennials (72%). Centenarians reported being familiar with Madonna (78%) and NBA all-star LeBron James (34%).

Evercare notes the survey indicates taking a holistic approach to staying connected beyond nutrition and exercise emerges as a key to longevity.  “(Centenarians) are using new technologies, staying abreast of news and current events, and engaging in social networking – all of which help to prevent chronic illnesses and contribute to greater longevity,” states Dr. Mark Leenay, senior medical director and vice president of clinical affairs at Evercare by UnitedHealthcare.

The survey, conducted by GfK Roper in April 2009, interviewed 105 active and healthy American centenarians (age 99+ at the time of the interview) and carried out an online survey of 1,036 U.S. residents ages 20-22 who expected to graduate a four-year college or university in 2009. Be sure to check out Evercare’s videos from the survey. –Helen Rickman