This will end up being very costly to the aging individual and our society as a whole. (NewsRx Health, 2014) In conclusion, from my family history and research I believe that genes are a major factor in life expectancy and chronic disease. Right now there are ways to slow or stop some diseases if these individuals take a healthy approach to life. This is not the case for everyone, but changing lifestyle has an impact on disease and life expectancy. My hope is that one day not so far in the future new treatments and medicines will become available to remove all diseases and extend life even further. References: Murabito, Joanne M., Yuan, Rong, & Lunetta, Kathryn L. (2012). The search for genes for longevity and healthy aging: insights from epidemiological studies and samples of long-lived individuals J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 67A 470 -479. Chronic disease; proposed strategy to prevent diseases of aging. (2014). NewsRx Health, , 107. Schaie, K. W., & Willis, S. L (2002). Adult development and aging (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice