Seniors in Utah are living some of the best years of their lives. For example, they have lower rates of diabetes, obesity, heart problems, and even Alzheimer’s compared to the rest of the U.S. Residents of Provo-Orem are also one of the happiest in the nation, and that satisfaction and happiness continue until their twilight years. Lifestyle and culture are two of the most important factors affecting these statistics.
Faith and Politics
Provo-Orem is considered as the most religious metropolitan area in the U.S. More than 75 percent see themselves as very religious, and this has given them a sense of purpose and joy in their lives. Provo-Orem also has more conservative values regarding family, marriage, and relationships. Liberal and Leftist ideologies have little or no influence on the culture, and men are not demonized as they are in most progressive cities. Surveys have consistently shown that religion and politics are significant factors when it comes to happiness. Religious Conservatives are firmly on top of the ranks when it comes to satisfaction, while Liberal men and women are consistently the unhappiest demographics.
Active Lifestyle and Health
Healthy living and an active lifestyle have made Provo-Orem residents healthier than the rest of the nation. Obesity is rare, especially among kids and teens. Doctors are more likely to treat a knee injury from hiking or some other physical activity, rather than joint injuries due to obesity. However, the Utahn love for the outdoors comes with its dangers as Utah has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the U.S. Elevation raises the concentrations of ultraviolet rays, and Utahns have added applying sunscreen into their daily regimen. Religion also plays a big part in Provo-Orem’s healthy lifestyle, as the Mormon faith has several restrictions against certain substances. Mormons, or Latter-day Saints, believe that their body is a temple, and they will not partake of substances that could be considered mind-altering or addictive. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and illegal drug use is frowned upon, eliminating most of the health problems due to these practices. This practice has also made Prove-Orem streets one of the safest in the USA, especially when it comes to drunk drivers.
Stable Economy
Provo-Orem ranked first in the Milken Institute’s ranking for Best Performing Cities in both 2017 and 2018. It has consistently held a stable economy with decent job growth and a reasonably small income gap. Provo-Orem is business-friendly with reasonable taxes and very few regulations regarding new businesses. It has become an attractive destination for the tech industry, and several have already set up shop. The effects of the robust tech industry have even reached the senior population, making them one of the most tech-savvy seniors in the nation.
In the end, while Provo-Orem does prove itself to be an excellent place for seniors, you can’t just move there and expect to reap all the benefits. Most of the statistics involving health and happiness are primarily due to lifestyle and culture and have minimal effects on new residents.