Old Folks Ain’t What They Used to Be – They’re Happier and Healthier, Study Says

If you are in your 60s, you probably don’t consider yourself “old.” In fact, I hope you never do! At the same time, many of us worry about how the aging process will impact us or our elderly parents. Will we, and the people close to us, live healthy, fulfilling lives well into our 90s?

Well, if you have concerns about aging, I have good news for you. According to a new study by several research institutions in Berlin, getting old isn’t what it used to be.

Specifically, the team found that 75-year-olds today have significantly higher levels of cognitive function and well-being than 20 years ago. In other words, seniors today are happier and mentally healthier than they ever.

While the study was not intended to show the cause of this increase in health and happiness among older adults, the team did have a few ideas. They speculated that these improvements were due, at least in part, to better physical fitness and higher levels of independence in old age.

This is good news for baby boomers everywhere. Life in your 60s is filled with important decisions. You can choose to “let yourself go” and give in to the temptations of your TV. Or, you can follow the example of 54-year-old pull-ups champion, Mark Jordan, and get in the best shape of your life. You can start to slow down. Or, you can explore your passions, start new ventures, get involved with volunteering and give back to the world.

Our generation has every reason to be optimistic about the future. As the data shows, our parents are already living longer and better lives than previous generations. For us, the future is even brighter – but, only if we take care of ourselves!

What do you think about this research? Do you worry about getting older and whether you will be able to stay in good health? What steps are you taking to make sure that you stay healthy and happy as you get older? Please join the conversation.