First, understand that 60 no longer means being “over the hill.” Many beliefs about aging are rooted in outdated information. Nevertheless, a majority of older women claim they would ideally return to their 40s. Secondly, while the 60/40 juxtaposition may sound catchy, it is more meaningful to celebrate the many positive aspects of being 60.
We need to dispel stereotyping, along with subconscious prejudice against older adults. It used to be considered impolite ever to ask a person their age. Such cultural biases promote a misplaced view of maturity as worthlessness, irrelevance, or burdensome.
Societal attitudes
Age is relative. In modern times, 40 has traditionally been regarded as the entry gate to middle age, depending on profession, job, or gender. Even that construct is relatively recent. Until the mid-19th century, no one even discussed middle age (except as a historical period of knights and cathedrals!), and the term “midlife” only first appeared in the dictionary in 1895.
Yet when 73 million baby boomers turned 30 in the 1980s, suddenly their perspectives changed. Many were not quite ready to retire when they reached 65. The Japanese even coined a word for it: the “yold” or young-old. In the U.S., the average age for entering a nursing home is now 81, versus 65 in the 1950s.
Scientific studies in Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands have explored evolutions in 20th-century physical and cognitive aging. Assessing cohorts 30 years apart, they discovered those born later exhibited faster walking gaits, stronger hand grip, and increased leg force, all of which can predict disability and mortality. On cognitive tests (like recalling the most words beginning with a particular letter), the more contemporary group outperformed, albeit not for short-term memory, like remembering a string of digits. Education appeared to be a key factor, accounting for higher income and medical access.
An Austrian/Stony Brook University study of populations in 39 European countries measured life expectancy versus chronological age. Where life expectancy rises, 60 might become the new 40 in terms of how the mind and body measure up. In most developed countries, it has already increased by 1.5 years per decade.
Young at heart
Are you as old as you feel? It may depend on how you define your age. Are you looking at years already lived, or how many you have remaining? The difference shows shifts in standard life milestones or lifestyles linked to age brackets. For instance, today’s population may delay marriage or children and may work longer or unretire afterward.
Those perceiving themselves as old may manifest an equivalent biological age. In a survey from Treasure Trails, a UK adventure program, 75% of the over-60s said they felt old age begins at 76, while a vigorous third thought 80. One in 10 reported more energy than their children. Even more inspiring, 1 in 8 surveyed thought they could work effectively as a spy! They attributed their capabilities to sports, gaming, puzzles, and grandchildren.
Indeed, people do feel younger than previous generations, with an improved mind-body connection. Yet ironically, youth culture dominates society more than ever, with cosmetic surgery, social media, and Viagra.
Fountain of youth
Fitness, stamina, and mindset may play a greater role than years. Many older adults value health span — a life free from serious illness — more than life span. Perhaps the No. 1 terror is loss of cognitive function, as everyone’s brain inevitably shrinks somewhat, losing some neurons. However, most people still retain information and skills, even if learning and working memory slow down slightly.
Previous generations were more passive. Today, as people age, they are likely to exercise their minds and bodies, connect electronically, and monitor their health and medical records. Blowing out 50 birthday candles qualifies many for senior center memberships.
The elixir of youth is not so remote. A study of adults over 85 by Dana Goldman at USC found 30% in very good or excellent health, with no limitations on housework and other tasks. Their open secrets: nutritious diet, exercise, socializing, challenging the mind, no smoking, and alcohol in moderation.
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