New Research Reveals Older Adults Are Feeling Younger

By S.M. Wagenaar, California Senior Writer

The familiar adage "60 is the new 50" is more than just a catchy phrase – it's a reflection of a fundamental shift in how we perceive and experience aging, backed by scientific research.

A study published by the American Psychological Association reveals that today's middle-aged and older adults are rewriting the rules of what it means to grow older.

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"There is a surprisingly strong historical trend toward a subjective postponement or later onset of old age," explains Dr. Markus Wettstein, a psychologist at the Humboldt University in Berlin and lead author of the study. "And we still don't fully understand why."

Dr. Wettstein’s research specializes in the areas of health and well-being in old and very old age, cognitive aging, and age-related changes in sensory functions.

Wellstein's research highlights the growing disconnect between how old we feel (subjective age) and our actual age in years (chronological age). While chronological age remains a constant, our subjective age, shaped by a complex interplay of biological, cultural, and individual factors, is becoming increasingly fluid.

Seniors in their 60s and 70s are reporting feeling significantly younger than their birth certificates might suggest, and this phenomenon has deep historical roots.

Data from the study shows a clear trend of people pushing back their perceived onset of old age over time. Increased life expectancy, advancements in healthcare, and changes in lifestyle have undoubtedly played a role, but so too have cultural shifts and evolving portrayals of aging in media and society.

The power of perception cannot be underestimated. Feeling younger has been linked to numerous physical and mental health benefits, including lower rates of chronic disease, improved cognitive function, and a more active and engaged lifestyle. It's a testament to the interconnectedness of mind and body, and how our outlook on life can shape our well-being.

However, this shift also raises important questions. How do we prepare for the later stages of life when the traditional markers of old age seem less relevant? How can we balance a youthful mindset with realistic planning for retirement and potential health concerns? These are challenges that individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers need to address as we navigate the changing landscape of aging.

The research opens the door to further exploration into the role of identity, the social implications of a longer "middle age," and the potential for leveraging this shift in perception to promote healthy aging and well-being on a broader scale.

The concept of "old age" is evolving, becoming less about a specific number and more about a state of mind and body. By embracing this change and understanding its implications, as supported by scientific research like Wettstein's study, we can unlock the potential for longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

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Discussion points: Okay California, sound off in the comments. Are we defined solely by our age? What age is considered old in 2024? Is the problem of ageism decreasing in America?

Primary Source Links:

• https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2024/04/old-age-onset-perceptions
• https://english.elpais.com/health/2024-04-24/60-is-the-new-50-according-to-science-and-60-year-olds.html
• https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/pag-pag0000812.pdf