My grand parents all lived to between 79 and 86 years of age, the last died in 2004. They were from a very different generation as are my parents and myself.

There are marked differences in each of the three generations. My grand parents generation typically lived full active lives right up until their deaths at home. Far fewer of my parents generation die at home from natural causes. Many end up in extended care facilities with multiple health problems. My generation (boomers) are going to see an even larger number in extended care facilities and at an earlier age, its already happening.

Life expectancy is declining in Canada and most western countries.

My grand parents life expectancy was 59 male, 61 female, yet they lived 20 plus years longer. My parents 63 male, 66 female, living less than 20 years longer. My generation 67 male, 73 female and we live closer to 10 years past expectancy.