New findings from the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index® (WBI) show that Americans over age 65 are experiencing the highest overall well-being. The report shows that as Americans age, there is a steady increase in healthy behaviors, work environment satisfaction and basic access to necessities peaking with those over 65. Older Americans are also thriving in the area of emotional health and are reportedly less sad and depressed than any other age group. They are falling slightly behind other age groups in life evaluation and physical health.

“Today’s older Americans show remarkable resilience as they age and navigate longevity’s challenges,” said Joseph Coughlin, PhD, Director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s AgeLab. “For tomorrow’s older adults to do as well, if not better, we need to take a lifespan approach to address multiple dimensions of well-being, from managing physical problems such as obesity, to instilling lifelong behaviors that will support a future generation of Americans that could begin approaching a new normal of 100 years of life.”

Advances in medicine and increased health-awareness efforts are leading to longer life expectancies among older Americans. It is predicted that by 2020, the average life expectancy in the U.S. will climb to 79.5, and that one in five people will be 65 or older in 2050. The current culture stresses the importance of instilling healthier behaviors among younger generations to reduce obesity, stop smoking and improve overall well-being so this next generation can reap the benefits of a long life.

“It’s apparent that with age comes wisdom. As evidenced through our SilverSneakers Fitness Program, older Americans are practicing the behaviors that get and keep them well, including embracing their communities, which improves emotional health, and are also smoking less and eating healthier,” said Ben Leedle, Jr., Healthways President and CEO. “The key now is to provide the solutions and tools to make healthy living a habit among younger generations as the most effective investment in lowering healthcare costs and increasing the overall well-being of our nation.”