It is no surprise that as our generation is reaching retirement more studies are being done to see what improves longevity and function as we head toward landmark ages such as 100.

It also should be no surprise that there are a few behaviors that really make a difference. The biggest is not smoking. In a recent study of 2300 men reported in the Archives of Internal Medicine, smoking doubled the risk of dying between the ages of 72 and 90. Those who had diabetes had an 86% chance of dying before the age of 90; obesity increased the risk by 44% and high blood pressure by 28%.

So, you might be thinking, who cares, I don’t want to get to 90 and be disabled anyway. However, many of the people who lived to 90 and beyond had minimal disability and were living independently. What was their secret? They lived well. They did not smoke, ate fruits and vegetables, exercised and remained active (mentally as well as physically).

Even if you have a chronic disease such as diabetes, you can live to be100 if you are able to treat your disease aggressively. Studies have confirmed that if you can find a doctor who becomes your partner and treats your overall health it can happen and you can maintain your quality of life.

What is the take home lesson in all of this? Live well and take care of yourself, find a good doctor and find ways to incorporate healthy activities (like exercise) into your every day life. Simple? Maybe not, but essential!