Seniors in San Diego County tend to be healthier than older Californians living in other parts of the state. A new report reveals how local seniors are faring in 17 different health measures.
The new San Diego County report takes a look at seniors' level of physical activity, chronic disease, and a variety of other health indicators.
Pam Smith directs the County Department of Aging and Independent Services.
She says only seven percent of local seniors smoke. And the vast majority of older women have had a mammogram within the last two years.
However, Smith says there are some problems.
"We've got 30 more years of life for the average American than we had 100 years ago, but what are we doing with that," Smith wonders. "And the fact that almost 58 percent are overweight or obese is not a good sign. We really need to turn that ship around."
More than 300,000 San Diego County residents are 65 or older. That number will double within 20 years.
