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Press Releases | |
May 12, 2000
Contact:
Announcing a Breakthrough Longevity Survey
Jane Finalborgo
(631) 287 8313
Fax: (631) 283 4081Study Focuses on What Enables More Older Americans to Live Longer, Rewarding Lives
SOUTHAMPTON, NY - At a time when the lifespan of Americans is expanding rapidly, the Center for Creative Retirement (CCR) at Southampton College of Long Island University, is conducting a Longevity Survey of seniors between the ages of 80 and 100 living on Long Island who are leading active, vital lives and widening their horizons in their mature years. This age group is the fastest growing in the U.S.
"We are seeking through this survey to identify those older individuals who are living longer lives and to evaluate the lifestyles and personal philosophies that contribute to their longevity," according to Clyde and Florence Matthews, founders and co-directors of CCR as well as the survey's principal investigators.
"Despite the popular image of our older population as being frail and dependent, there is a rapidly increasing number of men and women in their 80s and 90s who are living active and stimulating lives and contributing their life experiences and talents as volunteers at hospitals, cultural centers, educational institutions and other community organizations," said Clyde Matthews. "Many are involved politically and in social interaction, as well as attending Elderhostels, lifelong learning programs and pursuing their own creative endeavors."
The survey, which begins in mid-May, is believed to be the first of its kind in the country.
Deborah Anderson, Ph.D., a professor in the Graduate Program in Gerontology at Southampton College, is assisting in the survey. She is also a lecturer and consultant on aging issues and the author of two books and numerous articles in professional journals.
"The study is intended as a breakthrough in this virtually ignored and dynamically growing segment of our population at a time when centenarians are increasingly common," said Dr. Anderson.
Long Island was selected as the site of the survey because it represents a demographically diverse cross-section of urban, suburban, semi-rural and rural populations in various socio-economic groups. The survey includes some fifty multiple-choice questions focusing on attitudinal, personality, psychological and lifestyle factors which strongly affect the rapidly rising longevity rate. The questions contrast sharply with those about medical histories and health related issues with which most such studies are primarily concerned.
The results will be reported to various government agencies and institutions on aging as well as to the nation's media. The information should prove valuable to people of various ages and to policy-makers on all levels of government as well as to gerontologists, demographers, social scientists and psychologists.
The Nassau County Department of Senior Citizens Affairs and the Suffolk County Office for the Aging are cooperating in implementing the survey. To request a copy of the questionnaire, Nassau residents can call 516-751-5902. Suffolk residents can call 631-853-8200.
In 1994 Matthews conducted a survey of long-term marriages to determine the factors keeping couples together for 50 years or more. That survey was also sponsored by the Center for Creative Retirement. The results were widely reported in the national news media.
The Matthews, residents of East Hampton, are considered role models for people in their 80s who live active and creative lives. They founded CCR in 1981 after long professional careers - she in education and he in public relations and communications. CCR is a peer-directed program offering a wide range of courses selected and conducted by its members.
Individuals between the ages of 80 and 100 living on Long Island may participate in the Longevity Survey by calling 631-324-9699 or sending e-mail to flomat123@aol.com. Clyde Matthews will answer questions.