What do you think constitutes old age? Falling asleep watching TV, becoming forgetful, groaning when getting out of bed in the morning, saying ‘back in my day’, choosing comfort over style? A recent survey has actually found that these are all signs people view as showing old age.

It’s clear that the perception of old age has changed, especially with an increase in healthier lifestyles. I’m sure your parents had a very different view of old age than you do.

Old age is now viewed to begin at 80, which is 20 years later than previous generations believed. This has been attributed to healthier, more active and independent lifestyles, working later in life and an increase in life expectancy. It’s widely evident that people are staying younger and healthier for longer.

The survey of 2000 over 40’s found that one in five believe you can reach 90 before being considered as old. Whilst this isn’t representative of the whole population it gives a good insight into people’s perceptions of aging.

Personally, I don’t think old age can be given a number. Whilst many people may hold their own perceptions of old age, there are many examples of older people who show no signs of old age and continue to stay active, inspire others and even break records! (Have a read of my blogs on Doris Long and John Harrison)

Now, retirement is the start of a new chapter in life with older people leading active and healthy lifestyles, travelling the world or taking up new hobbies. Age is certainly just a number, and we are often only limited by our own perceptions.

Adie Blanchard – Researcher

Source

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2634451/You-arent-old-youre-80-Healthy-active-lifestyles-mean-older-people-staying-younger-longer.html