American dream: Live long and prosper

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Two out of every three Americans want to live to be 100 years old and they expect science to help them achieve that goal, according to a new national survey, which also found support for expanded medical research.

The survey, sponsored by the Alliance for Aging Research, looked at the attitude Americans have toward aging with special emphasis on the baby boom generation.

It found that 62 percent of Americans expect to live to be over 80 years old and that they feel they are, in part, responsible for their own health. More than 80 percent feel that having access to the best medical treatment and being able to afford medications will help them achieve that goal.

"Results indicate that Americans believe staying healthy in old age is not just a matter of fate, but something they themselves can affect," said Daniel Perry, executive director of the alliance. "Most Americans want to hit the century mark, but don't view living longer as an end in itself. They want to live with health and vitality and benefit from the many scientific breakthroughs now on the horizon."

According to the survey, Americans think having a positive outlook, exercising regularly, eating nutritious foods and keeping stress to a minimum play an important role in staying healthy as one grows older.

The survey found most Americans feel government will play an important role by funding medical research that will lead to prevention and cures for a number of diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's and diabetes.

Funded by Eli Lilly Pharmaceutical Co., the survey detailed support for new areas of research with 62 percent of those surveyed saying scientists should be able to use stem cells from early human embryos -- but not from aborted fetuses -- to help find cures for diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Fifty-four percent favor fetal-tissue research involving aborted fetuses.

That is a controversial area of research. Many conservatives object to fetal-tissue research, believing it condones -- if not encourages -- abortions.

According to the alliance, an estimated 6,000 Americans celebrate their 65th birthday each day. By the year 2030, approximately 75 million people will be 65 or older, which could drive up health care costs six-fold.

"The graying of America is certain to drive health care costs in the U.S. for at least the next 50 years," said Perry. "The challenge we face as advocates is to ensure the pace of research keeps up with the expectations of the American people, so we can ensure the miracles of science are brought to our benefit sooner rather than later."

One-thousand Americans 18 and older were surveyed in May for the study.