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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

5 min

What was the average lifespan in America in 1787?

In 1787, the average life expectancy at birth in America was only about 38 years. This low figure, however, paints a misleading picture of longevity for those who survived infancy, as health outcomes were dramatically different depending on age, location, and social standing.

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4 min

Why was human life expectancy 38 years old in 1750?

In the mid-18th century, with some of the best demographic data of the time available from Sweden, approximately 40% of children died before the age of 15. This devastating statistic was a primary driver behind why human life expectancy was 38 years old in 1750 and highlights a stark contrast to modern longevity. The low average lifespan was not due to people rarely living beyond middle age, but rather the immense number of infants and children who perished from preventable causes.

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