Many of us grew up with the idea that age 50 equals “over the hill.” But times have really changed. There are 70 million Baby Boomers, and the youngest are already in their 50s. So are we all considered “old” now … or at midlife? What age is considered old—really?
A recent article in the New York Times looked at this question and shared thinking from Sergei Scherbov, the lead researcher of a multiyear study on aging and how it’s viewed by society. Given that the life expectancy is currently just over 76 years for men and 81 years for women, how should we see ourselves—and how do others?
First, let’s consider how the research defined old: Key determinants that were factored in were longevity, health, cognitive function, and the rates at which disability strikes. These facets were looked at to consider at what point most people turn a corner and are unable to live as independently and fully as before.
The Age You Turn Old—Or So They Say
Now, about the findings: “Someone who is 60 years old today is middle-aged,” Scherbov said, and the concept of being old doesn’t kick in until about 70 to 71 for men and 73 to 74 for women. However, he was quoted as saying, “Your true age is not just the number of years you have lived.”
The main idea of the project is that an old age threshold should not be fixed but depend on the characteristics of people.
“The main idea of the project,” he said, “is that an old age threshold should not be fixed but depend on the characteristics of people.” Being able to participate full-throttle in life—as so many of us do—is a tremendous force in fighting the stereotypes of aging, that is, being frail, sedentary, and not contributing to society.
Another interesting finding of his work is how different generations view age. Our generation says that old age starts around age 73, but the younger generations feel differently. Millennials would define old as age 59 onward, while Generation X (now firmly in their 40s) says that 65 marks the beginning of old age.
Okay, so now it’s your turn to tell us what you think about this. In the comments, we’d love to hear your age and whether you feel old or not—and at what age is considered elderly, in your opinion.
Cheryl V. says
Turned 75 last May. I am caregiver to a woman 93+ who is infirm. Have never been mocked for my age until I came to this house 5+ years ago.
Just took a year long class with Red Cross for CNA and passed 1st time for written and lab (high scores). The educators were very surprised each time!! (Okay??!)Had overheard them say”looks like we have granny here” – but actually had to call me to the table to recognize who granny was!!
My energy level is high, my fitness is high. My doctor is very impressed. There are 20 year olds in this house that don’t seem to be as strong or as able as me. These 20 year-olds have a lot of respect for me…. The women’s children, in their 60’s call me elderly (and meanly, mean it).
Seems as though many of our previous elders (although, my mom is still in her right mind, and walks a mile a day at 93+), have really made people over a certain age into “the elderly.” I also blame the insurance companies.
What defense do we have against this kind of prejudice? I’d like to know!!
Gail Sammond says
I turn 73 in a couple days. As a very active woman, “old” was never something defining me.
Yesterday, while walking and training a new very strong dog, I got tangled in the leash and went down hard on the black top road. Really knocked the wind out of me. Good people got me and the dog out of the road and called 911. I am just fine except for a couple scratches and bruises. As a matter of a fact, proud to know how to fall. BUT it made me feel like I am declining and maybe old. So, I’ll step up my game. Work more on balance. Signed up for a class to help with the dog. She is our 6th rescue and the strongest we have ever worked with. Crazy we adopted a dog that would fit into a young family. We love her. Contrary to all the negative nannies out there, our pets to help keep us young. Must just be careful and recognize I am not 20 anymore.
Fran Z says
65 here, and i feel like Peter Pan…i won’t grow up! IDK what I consider elderly, it is a moving target…some seem elderly at 50; some 90 seem younger than their age. I just know it annoys me when newscasters call someone in a news story “elderly”, only to find they are over 60.