What does the phrase “old age” really mean?
For some people, it is the same as the classic definition of the retirement age: 65 years old and up. But as you probably have guessed and based on what you’ve likely experienced in your own life, someone that is 65 doesn’t necessarily always seem to be elderly.
Here’s my own personal example of that. When my mom turned 63, she was eligible to retire from her job with full benefits, so she did. After just a handful of months, she realized that she was bored and took a part-time job teaching at a local college. Fast forward a few years, she is in her early 70s and teaching full-time. Her social life is far more active now than what it was 15 years ago.
She doesn’t act like an “old” person even if she does fit the classic definition.
“Old age” isn’t a set age or guideline when it comes to daily life. It is more of a state of mind and body. Yes, time does play a role in determining old age, but this isn’t the only deciding factor.
And current research backs this up. In fact, new research indicates that what people consider to be “old age” has changed dramatically over the last several years. A few decades ago, people born in the year 1911 were asked what they considered to be old age when they were aged 65. The answer? 71.
More recently, people born in 1956 were asked the same question at age 65. Their answer? Age 74.
It seems that the overall perception of old age is changing–and not just for the general public. People who are technically senior citizens are also reconsidering what they consider to be older.
The end result of this is likely that older adults are living more active lives, even as they grow older. My mom is currently in her 70s. When I call her, she’s often out with a friend and doesn’t have time to talk when we first connect. She’s far more active now than she was when she was younger.
This research project was published in the journal, Psychology and Aging. It provides a helpful picture of how seniors perceive themselves, and gives those that work (and live) with them better guidance on how to be helpful.
Whatever challenges you might be facing as you or someone in your family are aging, please know that there is help out there. It’s good that people are living longer, more fulfilling lives. But this doesn’t take away the fact that senior care will eventually be needed for a lot of people as they do grow older.
If you’re looking for a care service to be part of your team, we’d be happy to talk more. Give us a call and schedule a free consultation session with one of our professional caregivers. We can help get you steered in the right direction and make sure that your family has the support needed during “old age”–whatever that might look like for you and your unique set of circumstances.
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