Recently, a high-level athlete was quoted as saying that she felt the same at fifty as she did at thirty; I guess a lot of people would echo her sentiments. And as the baby boomer generation reaches its 50s, and 34% of the population is now 50 or older, we all look forward to living longer, fitter, more fulfilling lives. For many of us, the way we experience aging and middle age has become a more fluid and relaxed affair. Getting older seems to have fewer defined parameters and stereotypes associated with aging.
How many of us now look in the mirror and see an older person staring back at us? With the ready availability of hair dye, access to an improved diet and medical care, and the choice of many non-invasive surgical treatments, we can chase away the years with relative ease. Staying interested and staying in touch with what’s happening in the world keeps us young in perspective, connected and has never been easier.
Fashion is also more inclusive as fashion houses appreciate that older people are a lucrative market to target. Leisure activities and sportswear aimed at people with excess free time and disposable income are a valuable source of habits. Many older people are inclined towards sports, golf, want to travel more and enjoy a full social life. There is a demand for an attractive wardrobe to support that lifestyle.
An increasing percentage of the population is self-employed, allowing greater freedom in planning their schedules, with the option to adapt and change the way they apply their work commitment. It means that retirement does not have to occur at a predetermined age or time in life; clearance can be incorporated when required.
Then there are those people who may have waited until their fifties for their children to leave home or to begin the process of ending an unhappy relationship. This decision will cause significant financial and domestic turmoil, but often provides an eagerly awaited new start in life.
For some, the financial pressure may have eased as they age, with the mortgage paid off, the children’s education over, and maybe a pension starting to pay off. Others may still need or want to work; Earning money can be an important consideration, plus the social and routine side of work brings structure and social interaction to your life.
Feeling younger than our years is about both mental and physical activity and stimulation. The University of the Third Age is an organization that offers interesting courses and events for older people, but many training courses that support hobbies, arts and crafts, as well as additional training for professional qualifications, are available for people of a certain age. They provide routine, purpose, challenge, as well as opportunities for social interaction and friendship. Mental and physical exercise, from walking, yoga, sports to contests and stimulating conversations, are crucial in helping us stay young.
As we age, some people may have begun to experience physical or health-related limitations, but this does not necessarily close the door on a full and satisfying life. Different levels of in-home support can be tailored to meet the needs of each individual, from meal delivery, cleaning services, to companionship and overnight care. Internet access can bring much, including family, friendship, shopping, work, training, and entertainment, easily into the home when needed.
Downsizing is an attractive option for many once their children have left home and committed to living their lives independently. Doing this right can free up some capital and bring less responsibility in terms of maintenance and overhead. Reducing financial stress is an important way to stay young, healthy, and committed to an active life.
Some people may use the afterlife to revisit an interest from their early years that they chose to abandon or were unable to pursue. Or later in life it may be a good time to establish a new business interest, perhaps a consultancy where there is the freedom to follow a new and fulfilling path to success.
For others, they have made a wish list of things they want to do, places they want to visit while they are still fit and can enjoy them. Many tour operators offer adventure travel or extended stay options for those with the time, money, and inclination to take advantage of these opportunities, and it’s a lovely way to fill the colder months with activity, warmth, and a comfortable lifestyle.
The saying ‘health is wealth’ is especially true as we age, with many people in better shape, with more disposable income, ready and able to enjoy the freedom that comes with less responsibility. Taking care of grandchildren can be a way to enjoy some days, but many in their later years also have busy schedules, filled with plans, clubs and social events. Staying active and interested, being open and receptive to new opportunities in life is a great antidote to aging.