When most people think of a 60-year-old, they think of someone that’s pretty old and vulnerable. However, this is far from reality. In this article, we’ve compiled a few facts that will make you realize 60 isn’t as old and boring as you may have thought.
Life expectancy is increasing
As the years go by, life expectancy continues to increase. It is now normal for people to reach their 80s and 90s, while many people live to be over 100. Pew Research Center says that in the next 30 years, the number of centenarians is expected to quadruple.
Active lifestyles keep you young
We are conditioned to believe that activity declines as we age. While age slows us down to an extent, the number of active 60-year-olds makes us rethink. People well into their 60s maintain active lifestyles, and older generations continue to participate in sports, hiking, and biking.
60 is a travel era
When people think of traveling, they often think of 20-year-olds backpacking their way across the globe. However, at the age of 60, many people embark on a new era of travel. It is common for those who retire to travel regularly, and they have spent their entire lives building financial stability to accommodate this.
A lot of 60-year-olds are tech-savvy
It is a common misconception that older generations aren’t very good with technology, but most 60-year-olds are tech-savvy. At 60, you know a time before the digital age and have grown alongside it. Many people in their 60s are great with phones and computers and stay connected online.
Many 60-year-olds are still working
According to Forbes, the average retirement age for men in America is 65, while for women it’s 62. Most people are still working well into their 60s, and for many, it is out of choice rather than necessity. Just because you reach retirement age doesn’t mean you need to slow down and end your career.
Lifelong learning continues at 60
At 60, many people continue their education or learn new things. Once the kids have flown the nest and retirement is approaching, there is more disposable time to take classes and engage in new activities. Learning is a lifelong journey, and most people in their 60s continue self-development.
Social connections bring a new lease of life
Social connections die down temporarily when life is consumed with work, parenting, and marriage. However, at the age of 60, social connections come back and bring a new lease of life. With more disposable time, there is additional time to nurture friendships and enjoy rich, fulfilling relationships.
A lot of 60-year-olds volunteer
Even when you reach retirement age and decide to leave a career, it doesn’t mean you have to slow down. A lot of people in their 60s choose to volunteer and give back to their community. They contribute their time and expertise to organizations that they care about without any financial reward.
Creativity is mentally stimulating
Many people in their 60s continue to explore creative hobbies or take on new ones. Creative pursuits are great for well-being and help you live a fulfilling life. Many people engage in painting, writing, and music. Psychology Today says that creativity is great for encouraging mental stimulation.
Grandparents are actively engaged
Now more than ever, grandparents are actively engaged with their grandchildren. Many often help with childcare and run around after the little ones. Grandchildren keep you physically and mentally young. Research shows that spending time with young children increases your lifespan.
People in their 60’s participate in marathons and triathlons
It is not uncommon to see people over the age of 60 participating in endurance events like marathons and triathlons. Many people in their 60s and above continue to be dedicated to activity. When you see older generations excelling in these events, it makes you realize that 60 isn’t as old as you think.
Yoga and meditation are popular at 60
An interest in yoga and meditation is often associated with Millenials and Gen Z; however, it is also incredibly popular with people in their 60s. Promoting physical health and mental well-being, both yoga and meditation are said to have a positive cognitive influence and help with hormonal changes.
Entrepreneurship is common at 60
Many people start new businesses in their 60s and show no sign of slowing down. The combination of years of expertise and financial stability makes it easy for people at 60 to take the risk of stepping into entrepreneurship. It is common to pursue passions that there was no time for earlier in life.
Many 60-year-olds take on leadership roles
It is common for people in their 60s to take on leadership roles in their community. They have knowledge and expertise that younger generations don’t have, with the advantage of time. These people influence positive change and advocate for important issues. The effort put into these positions shows that 60 isn’t old.
Cultural engagement maintains a sense of youth
Attending concerts, going to the theater, and visiting art exhibitions are just a few examples of cultural engagement that maintains a sense of youth. Age is just a number, and you are never too old to attend a festival. Interacting with culture helps you feel fulfilled and mentally stimulated.
Personal reinvention is common at 60
It is common at 60 to go through a personal reinvention. When kids have moved out, and careers come to an end, it is natural to refind your identity. You’re never too old to reinvent yourself, but at 60, it indicates that you’re still young enough to want to spice up your life.
Adventure sports are popular with over 60’s
Mountain climbing, skydiving and scuba diving are just a few adventure sports popular with the over-60s. Some 60-year-olds have always thrived on adventure, but some get into it later in life. Psych Central says that people participate in adventure sports for a life-changing experience.
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