The saying “it’s never too late to quit smoking” is very true. No matter what age you are, you can reap the benefits of quitting almost immediately. Earlier this year, researchers from German Cancer Research Center revealed that smokers cut their risk of heart attack and stroke by as much as 40 percent after five years of quitting. In this article, let us talk about the amazing benefits of quitting to older adults.
Older adults are at greater health risk from smoking than younger smokers because they are more likely to have smoked for more than 40 years, tend to be heavier smokers, and are more likely to develop smoking-related 
diseases due to weaker immune systems and aging cells. Sadly, latest figures show that today’s generation of older Americans has the highest smoking rates than any other. In the German study, researchers showed that the risk of smokers for cardiovascular diseases is more than twice that of non-smokers. “For example, a 60-year-old smoker has the same risk of heart attack as a 79-year-old non-smoker and the same risk of stroke as a 69-year-old non-smoker,” they wrote. Their study also suggests that the number of cigarettes consumed and the duration of the habit have significant impact on the smokers’ cardiovascular health risks. The more cigarettes they consume and for the longer period of time, the higher their risk is.
Major Benefits of Quitting to Older Adults
If you have been smoking for a long time, you may wonder whether quitting would bring you any benefit at all and whether it’s worth a try. The good news is YES. When you quit, your health will dramatically improve once your body starts repairing itself!
You will have more energy.
Just because you’re over 60 doesn’t mean you can’t have the energy levels of those in their 30s or 40s. When you stop smoking, the oxygen in your blood will increase and the carbon monoxide levels will drop, leading to improved blood flow and increased energy.
You’ll live longer.
Men who quit smoking at the age of 65 add 1.4 to 2 years more to their life and women, 2.7 to 3.4 years.
You will look younger.
Smoking is one of the leading causes of premature aging. This deadly habit causes you wrinkles, dull hair, dry skin and overall poor appearance. When you stop, your body can better absorb nutrients from your diet to nourish your cells, leading to
Giving up tobacco can be a big challenge especially if you’ve been hooked to it for many, many years. But no matter how old you are, quitting smoking is definitely worth the try.
a youthful, glowing appearance.
You will be a good role model.
Quitting smoking sends a positive message to your grand children and everyone else. You can also serve as an inspiration to other older adults who think it’s too late for them to quit.
You lower your risk of developing cataracts.
Whilst older people are generally prone to cataracts, smokers are more at risk. Cataract is a serious eye problem that could lead to blindness.
Your quality of life will improve.
Due to the said benefits of quitting, expect a major improvement in the quality of your life.
Giving up tobacco can be a big challenge especially if you’ve been hooked to it for many, many years. But no matter how old you are, quitting smoking is definitely worth the try.
