Aging Not All Doom And Gloom, Much To Be Happy About

Aging brings with it problems such as chronic illness, cognitive decline, and fading physical abilities. And, of course, these issues are constantly highlighted in the media. But, less publicized is the fact that aging also brings with it many fine qualities. Indeed, Seniors can be positive role models and guiding lights to the younger generation.

aging

Here are several positive facts about the aging that you should be aware of.

Aging: Experience Counts

They’re called the golden years for a reason. Getting older has its perks. For one, you’re good at using what you’ve learned. This is called crystallized intelligence, and it keeps getting better, even when you’re 65 or 70.

Aging: Happy Is

Turns out you might not be a grumpy old man (or woman), after all. You’ll probably get more agreeable as you age. You’re also likely to be happier and less inclined to get angry. Scientists haven’t figured out exactly why this happens, but they do have some theories. Older people might control their emotions better, and focus more on how to make the most of life.

Aging: Team Player

You’re more in tune with other people’s emotions in your 60s+ than at any other time in your life. That insight into how others think and feel can make living with your loved ones easier and be that calming influence.

Aging: A Taste for Life

As you age, medications, illness (colds, flu, gum diseases, etc.) and allergies all can change your sense of smell and taste. And that can affect your diet and health. If you find things need to be spiced up, try some olive oil, herbs like rosemary and thyme, garlic, onion, peppers, or mustard. Just stay away from the salt.

Aging: Early To Rise is Wise

There’s a good chance you’ll become the morning person you’ve always wanted to be as you hit your 60s. Our sleeping patterns can shift as we age, so we get sleepier earlier and wake up earlier. That seems to work out well. One study showed that even though folks over 65 tend to wake up during the night, most said they regularly get a good night’s sleep.

Aging: No Migraines

Once you hit your 70s, those migraines you may have had much of your life may go away. Only 10% of women and 5% of men over 70 still report migraines. Even better news: Even if you have a migraine, it may not actually come with the headache. As we age they’re more like to show up as visual or sensory disturbances instead.

Aging: Stay Active, Keep Working

Early retirement might not be the best thing for your health, unless you have a fun second career. A study called the Longevity Project found that people who work hard at a job they enjoy live the longest. That, along with good friends and a good marriage, could be the key to sticking around a while.

Aging: You’re Fearless

You may worry more about breaking bones as you age. But you’re more likely to take a tumble if you’re scared of falling. One study found that about a third of adults over 65 have that fear. And it’s understandable, because falls are the leading cause of injuries for older people.

Aging: Self-Confidence

Self-esteem soars as you age, studies show, and increases with wealth, education, good health, and employment. With increasing life spans, healthier lifestyles, and working to an older age, we may really appreciate that change.

Less Stress

Baby boomers and older adults report less stress than their younger counterparts, according to the American Psychological Association’s annual Stress in America report. That doesn’t mean, it goes away. Health and money problems still crop up. But, the APA says, 9 of 10 older adults say they’re doing enough to manage it.

Aging: Strength in Numbers

The graying of America may be a good thing for you. Those 60 and over tend to cast ballots more than any other age group. And they’re the fastest-growing block of voters in the U.S. these days. That means more voting power on topics that matter as you age such as Medicare, Social Security, and health care.