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With the latest medical and technological breakthroughs, scientists are expecting that there will be an increase in the number of people who will reach the age of 100. In fact, the number of centenarians in the US is estimated to increase fourfold, according to the Census Bureau. This is really not surprising because since 1900 life expectancy has risen to 75 from 46 for the male population and 80 from 48 for the opposite sex.

Although the figures look optimistic for everybody, these do not necessarily mean that old people in the future will be healthier and fitter. One person can live up to 105 with the help of a respirator or a machine. But if you want to enjoy old age, you should start investing on your health now. Below are some ways you can help strengthen the parts of your body that are usually first to succumb to the aging process.

Eyes

What is the use of living up to 120 when you cannot enjoy the latest gadgets and ultra high-definition television and shows? The eyes are actually one of the many parts of the body that start to degenerate very early. Actually, the number one cause of visual impairment in individuals over 55 is macular degeneration, a condition where the central vision is no longer functioning very well due to deterioration.

If you want to lower your risk of getting eyesight problems, including cataract and glaucoma, you need to stop smoking now. A number of studies have already shown the connection of nicotine addiction to poor eye health. Wearing shades or protective glasses to block UV lights is also a good idea. Thus, you should never forget to bring sunglasses whenever you are going out during the day; also, buy a filter for your computer screen to shield your eyes from the light emitted by such device.

Brain

Another important organ that you need to strengthen is your brain. Few episodes of forgetfulness are quite common and should not cause any alarm. However, if you see a pattern of fogginess and memory lapses, then you need to start doing something about your brain.

Experts have confirmed that sleep deprivation, stress, aging, drug addiction, alcohol and depression are the leading factors that can fry up your brain. The factors mentioned above are also responsible for building up proteins that can cause dementia. There is really nothing you can do about aging, but you can definitely address stress, addiction to substances, depression and lack of sleep.

If you have been living as a party animal for years, drowning yourself in alcohol and cigarette smoke, there is still some hope for you. You can reverse the damage you have inflicted upon your gray matter by simply drinking lots and lots of water and doing regular aerobic exercises. A 20-minute workout at least four times a week can really work wonders in replenishing your lost brain cells. The brain works pretty much like the muscles in your body; if you do not use it, it will be wasted away. Reading, doing puzzles and some problem-solving each day are helpful workouts for your brain.

Bones

Arthritis, rheumatism and other skeletal disorders are conditions that are common in old people. However, due to the increasing popularity of sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits, even people in their 30s and 40s are already suffering from such diseases.

If you want to stay active even when you are 100 years old, you ought to start building and protecting your bones. It is important to note that by mid 30s, everybody is already starting to lose bone mass.

Weight training, walking and cardio exercises are known to help in making your skeletal system stronger. If you are already starting to feel some aches and stiffness in your joints, you can use supplements that help alleviate the pain and, at the same time, fortify your bones and joints.