"> From A Wellness Perspective, Are We Better Off Now Than 100 Years Ago? (Encore 2)
 
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by Donald B. Ardell, Ph. D.
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From A Wellness Perspective, Are We Better Off Now Than 100 Years Ago? (Encore 2)

Wednesday August 6, 2003

Politicians are often fond of asking "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"-- or whenever the other political party was in power. A variation of this question, from a self-management perspective, might be fun to ponder, namely, "Are we who are alive today better off than people were 100 years ago?" Of course, it's necessary to clarify to some extent the nature of the criteria for making such an assessment. From a wellness or self-management perspective, I'd suggest we form our first impressions on this question based on quality of life issues. Is it easier for us to choose healthy lifestyles today, or was it easier 100 years ago? Which time in American history provided more favorable conditions, more agreeable social and environmental factors?

This is a challenge worthy of a doctoral dissertation, a book or a major motion picture! However, a brief essay will have to do for the moment!

For starters, here are the factors that seem to give the edge, from a wellness or quality of life perspective, to the folks who were around a century ago. (Of course, you might also keep in mind that no matter how much you might have enjoyed life 100 years ago, if you had done so then, you'd be dead now!)

Advantage 1900:

On the other hand, have a look at the factors that I think give the edge to us.

Advantage 2000:

All in all, it seems that the present offers more opportunities for living a life marked by improved conditions for optimal health than ever before, and certainly more so than was the case a century ago. Make the most of your opportunities. Choose wellness -- and be as well and engaged in life as possible.

Cheers. Look on the bright side of life. Maybe it will be even easier to live a wellness lifestyle 100 years from now, but that won't matter for you, so seize the present day.

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