Old guy

Evolution of Life Expectancy

By medison95

  • 1900

    1900
    Starting in the year 1900, the average life expectancy in the United States was a shockingly low 46 years for men, and 48 years for women.

  • 1925

    1925
    in 1925, there was significant progress in average life expectancy in the United States, with men averaging about 64 years and women 71 years. Much of this progress is attributed to medical advancements, increased industrial cleanliness, and more public health exposure.

  • 1950

    1950
    In 1950, the numbers stayed in the same general ballpark, with men averaging a life expectancy of 66 years and women 71 years.

  • 1975

    1975
    The average life expectancy was a good tick improved from the 50's, with men cracking 70 years for the first time, but women maintaining their lead at 74 years. Medical advancements led the charge, particularly cardiovascular health. In particular, the 70's saw the first effective treatments for hypertension, a leading killer in previous generations.

  • 1995 (my birth year)

    1995 (my birth year)
    In the year I was born, 1995, men averaged a life expectancy of 73 years, and women 79 years. The numbers continued the steady climb with more societal advancements and research. Two major points of emphasis in the 90's was the decreased infant mortality rates, and better end of life care and education for the elderly.

  • Present

    Present
    The most recent conclusive data (2023) shows men averaging a life expectancy of 75 years, and women 78 years. While not a big regression by any means, I believe a bit of stagnation has occured due to the obesity epidemic and overall sedentary nature of many Americans.

  • The Role of Social Workers

    The Role of Social Workers
    Social workers act as a beacon of support in a multitude of ways. In the context of life expectancy and health, social workers can be an advocate for healthy lifestyles, a voice for the underserved (and thus unhealthier), and a bridge for those seeking better access to medical care. Because of reasons like this, the scale of social workers should continue to expand in the same way that medicine and society expand as well. As society evolves, the social work profession must as well.