Did you know the global population of older adults is rapidly growing? By 2030, it is projected that 1 in 6 people worldwide will be aged 60 years and above. The World Health Organization [1] projects that the percentage of people aged 60 years or older will almost double, rising from 12% in 2015 to 22% by 2050.
This is possibly your generation of aging adults; a generation where people are growing older and living happier lives; one that tends to have a more positive outlook on life and experience greater emotional well-being than younger adults, according to the Journal of Aging and Health [2].
Now that it's clear you have a higher chance of living beyond the ripe age of 65 or 70, how can you improve the quality of your life? What misconceptions do you have about older people or growing old and things you don't know? What are some things no one has ever told you about aging? This article will show them to you.
Getting Older? Here Are 11 Things No One Tells You About Aging
As you inch ever closer to a fulfilling life in your later years, below are some important details you must bear in mind:
1. You have a better understanding of life
As you age, you gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the complexities of life. With lived experiences and accumulated wisdom, you'll develop greater empathy, patience, and perspective. You'll be better equipped to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and find meaning and purpose in the various stages of life.
2. You'll have better relationships with others
You'll quickly find that the "grumpy old fellow" narrative is completely false. Older adults have a better understanding of people and can control their emotions more effectively. You'll be more fun and loving to loved ones and strangers because you understand how valuable relationships are.
3. Change in smell and taste
One of the aspects of aging that no one ever told you is a potential, gradual loss of your senses, particularly taste and smell, due to medications and allergies. As you reach an older age, the number of functioning taste buds and olfactory receptors can diminish, leading to a dulling of flavors and aromas.
This can impact appetite, food enjoyment, and even safety awareness. When this happens, avoid seasoning your food too much with salt, as it can affect heart health and trigger other medical conditions. Instead use natural seasonings like olive oil, garlic, onion, chili or mustard, rosemary, and thyme.
4. You'll have better sex
Researchers found that sexual satisfaction improved with age after a study of women 40 and above. Another study proved that older women over 80 have a stronger sex drive than women aged 55 to 79 [3]. The reasons for this can include experience and confidence, deeper emotional connection, less pressure, time, and prioritizing intimacy.
5. Reduced chances of migraines
When you reach a certain age, you'll find that you no longer have migraine symptoms. One study found that only 10 percent of women and 5 percent of men still experience migraines and headaches after the age of 70, many of which are accompanied by olfactory and vision issues [4].
5. Changes in hair growth and loss
As you age and your hormones change, you may notice certain changes in how your hair grows. You may see signs of hair thinning and baldness while hair also grows in strange places like your ear, nose, and chin (for women). Some of these changes are genetic and hormonal but natural.
6. You'll sleep earlier and wake up earlier
Older people have a lot more time on their hands to spend relaxing. You'll notice you find it easier to sleep at the end of the day and also wake up early enough to prepare for the next day. Your days of working hard are gradually ending; it's time to enjoy the results of your work.
7. You'll consider early retirement but don't
While the idea of early retirement may be enticing, it's often advisable to approach it with caution. Maintaining an active professional life can provide a sense of purpose, social connections, and financial security as you age. Additionally, an abrupt transition to retirement can increase chances of boredom, isolation, and a loss of cognitive stimulation.
8. Self-esteem decline
You may begin to notice a decline in your self-confidence due to an accumulation of health problems, appearance, physical strength, and more. However, you can change that by staying socially active, investing in good health, and finding fulfillment in your work till an older age.
9. You can have a beautiful skin
One of the things no one tells you about aging is that you can have beautiful skin, even as you get older. With proper skincare routines and investment in quality moisturizers, serums, and other age-appropriate skincare products, you can maintain a youthful and radiant complexion.
10. Changes in height
The spaces between the bones in your spine will begin to reduce, making you appear shorter by the year. This is a natural occurrence and helps to improve stability and balance, posture, and protection for your spinal cord.
11. The fear of falling and breaking bones
According to the CDC [5], each year, millions of older people, aged 65 and older, experience falls. More than one out of four older people falls each year. Some of the risk factors include balance issues, environmental hazards, and underlying health conditions. You can prevent falls by implementing simple home modifications.
How Older Men and Women Can Prepare for a Healthier Aging Experience
Aging is NOT a period of trials and tribulations as it has been made to look. It is the period of your life that is meant for relaxation and satisfaction with life. You can lead a beautiful life as you age by following the simple guide below:
- Maintain an Active Lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity, such as strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and flexibility routines, to preserve muscle mass, joint function, and cardiovascular health.
- Prioritize Nutrition: Eat a balanced, nutrient-dense diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support overall health and counteract age-related changes.
- Prioritize Mental Wellness: Practice stress management techniques, engage in cognitive stimulation, and cultivate social connections to support cognitive function and emotional well-being.
- Proactive Healthcare: Undergo regular check-ups, screenings, and preventive care to identify and manage diseases or health conditions early on, reducing the risk of complications.
- Adaptability and Flexibility: Be open to making lifestyle adjustments, such as using assistive devices or modifying daily routines, to accommodate any physical or cognitive changes. Avoid smoking and drinking heavily, and eat less carbs, salt, and fatty foods to prevent high blood pressure.
By addressing these key areas, older adults can take proactive steps to ensure a more fulfilling and healthier aging experience.
Plan for Healthy Aging with Kendal At Home
Kendal At Home provides a comprehensive solution to support healthy aging. From home modifications and caregiving to healthcare and lifestyle services, we connect older adults to experienced professionals, ensuring more independence, flexibility, and confidence as they navigate aging.
By proactively planning for future care needs, we make it easy for you to access the help you require, even before it becomes necessary. With Kendal At Home, you can look forward to a fruitful and healthy aging experience, with the assurance of having all your needs met under one trusted roof.
