Thank you so much for these inspiring thoughts! Definitely exercise is a key to feeling more energetic and keeping the brain clear. Healthy diets also contribute to better sleep and focus. Adventure and change are a MUST! Keeps us on our toes, makes you feel alive and look at all the new things you can experience! 62 and feeling/ acting 20 !
62 and positive with an optimistic attitude and younger outlook. I can tell you now, at 77, that's a great way to go into your older years, Sarah. Thank you for your response.
I welcome change with open arms in many ways. I agree with a lot on your list diet, exercise, didn’t know about the palm oil and positive thinking can transform all of us. BUT Being old has enabled me the time to embrace change in myself, technology, and I also embrace being old ‘ Old and proud is my motto’. What is wrong with being old?
I know many disagree with my philosophy, but rather than rejecting being old I want to change how people view the process, as not something to be ashamed of, news, we grow older the minute we are born.
We are all different and many people struggle with exercise, their bodies and health are letting them down, positive thinking can be very difficult for some people living in isolation and they can just wither because they feel they are old - which is a dirty word and it means they deserve to be on the scrap heap. We should shout that being old has many many good things.
Being old not something to be ashamed, if we are ashamed of being old how are younger people expected to view the older person walking down the road? Yes I agree with the other things on the list, but we should show people being old is a badge of honour regardless of how our circumstances have shaped us, as the young do.
Hi Jo, Have you read my post 15 Good Things No One Tells You About Ageing? I have a similar post lined up suggesting more good things about ageing, for publishing. My whole philosophy about being old is the same as yours, except, perhaps, I am more optimistic and positive. I am not ashamed of being my age, nor do I ignore the changes that ageing brings. I believe in living the best life you can with what you have, but I also believe that we have choice, we can make a difference if we so choose. Positivity in your older years is not to be despised, it's to be welcomed, science tells us that, and I choose it. It doesn't come naturally, it's a choice I make. I'm sorry you find it difficult to see how we are aligned in most of our thinking about the subject. Challenging ageism is something that underlines much of what I write and it's why I write. It's not about rejecting your age, it's about accepting it, no matter what it brings, with optimism and resilience.
I think we agree on everything except the word old. We are often categorised as old for many reasons. My argument is let’s own the word rather than dismissing it. I can be old and positive as I was young and positive. Rhetoric matters including how certain words are viewed. I think my argument is I am old, positive and will live the best life I can but accept I am old.
I have always challenged ageism even when I was ‘young’ particularly to view being old as a virtue ❤️❤️
Your article makes me smile. I have never met anyone less afraid of age as myself. I am almost 65 and looking forward to my next 50 years. It’s all good. Even the terrible parts.
Great attitude! I love your looking forward to the next 50 years. I'm 77 and I’ve been giving myself another 20 years since 70. I haven't stopped yet. Maybe at 80 (maybe not!)
Huge gratitude for your generosity and your wisdom…great job. Helpful and inspiring. I’ll be looking out for your posts not just because you give so much but because you have great things to say and share ….that eventually is what matters….your contribution to the wellbeing of this community. Thank you very much. If you have written any books, please let me know.
Thank you, Win. I'm so glad you enjoyed this post and found it inspiring. I have written a book and a workbook to go with it. I have a Book Shop tab on my Home Page which has the book, the pdf workbook and a free gift, which is also a pdf. The book is about my own journey into ageing, following the science for healthy living for over thirty years. I'm in my late seventies, fit and well, no medication, and want to share how I did it through this Substack and my books (more in the pipeline). I appreciate your comments.
Great article and practical useful advice. Thank you! I have a big problem with the Progressive insurance commercials who don’t want the “younger generation” to act like their parents! I think that’s ageism! I love talking to strangers and being involved in my community! If you don’t smile and say hi you’ll never know who you might meet! I don’t mean annoying chats- just a hi. You never know what another person needs. Having my dog with me practically everywhere I go has led me to people opening up and just connecting.
Turning 65 was a depressor for me, as Medicare came into play- thought I’d never age! But that feeling went away thankfully.
The only constant is change, so embrace it. And wear bright colors! 😊
“Happy in small ways”. That strikes a chord for me. We all seem to look for big moments but are they really the best? find happiness in small moments. Something to think about….
I love change. I feel like I'm 50 when in reality, I am 76 years young. And I love technology. Every time we get new devices, my husband refers to me as the technical guru in the family. I look at it like this if I'm going to pay that much money for a watch or a phone or an iPad I better know how to operate every single function.
I have tried so many times to fix (apparently) something simple with my Smartphone or Tablet. Ugh. Give me French conversation, conjugating Spanish verbs or a refresher in American history. These I love. My mind is sharp but not wired for the tech stuff. I am almost 74, and feel 50, maybe. Love life and am joyfilled every day!
Robin, will I think you're so much further ahead than I. I only speak English and not very well. Happy that you're living and loving your life every day. Like I said age is just a number and we don't have to act it.
I too am an older techie. This makes me glad I’m not afraid of them. I think not have technology in your life can isolate you as much as too much technology.
I find that people’s expectations that at 65 you will retire is crazy. I work most days in my work Job, but also craft, travel, and have lots of lovely little grandchildren to enjoy is so young making. I have to work hard from no yelling at people I’m Not Retired….any one else understand?
Patricia, I'm not afraid of change at all. I actually enjoy variety so that's easy.
I feel about 30 years younger than my actual age and no one ever believes that I am my birth age. As far as technology bring it on. Before I resigned as an RN at the VA, which was about three years ago I was running 12 programs at one time on a computer so I'd say I'm pretty good there
Great article just found you on Substack in a feed and grateful to be here .
It's good to read from women who live life full on, which is how I see what you're doing, Kathleen; not afraid of change or technology and think yourself younger than your age. That's exactly how I am and I know there's many of us ,changing the way it is to be older. I'm so pleased you're here!
I've noticed my older relatives dwelling in the past so much. They tell the same stories I've heard hundreds of times. The only new thing they seem to know is what Trump is up to. Becoming a lifelong learner is the only way to avoid dwelling in the past. Read new non-fiction books. Take an online course and get excited about a yoga class so you have something else to talk about. Instead of that one time, this guy named Bob, whom you worked with 400 years ago, did that thing that you need to force everyone else to listen to-- again.
I really enjoyed this, especially number one: don’t talk about being old. Also fascinating was the fact that people think of themselves as older than their chronological age. I am nearly 68 but I have never really thought of myself as older than 11. When pressed, I have admitted to feeling 30.
While ageism is rampant in our culture there is a subtle, and wonderful, shift beginning. We can see it everywhere from essays like this to Hollywood, which is finally embracing women over 35! Hopefully this will begin to create a paradigm shift which will result in us gaining value as we move through life rather than feeling like we are less valuable.
Thank you, Donna. I'm so happy you enjoyed the post. I do belleve that older women are changing the way we age. We don't want to grow older the way our parents did and we want to change the narrative around ageing. We are all adding to that process of change.
Thank you so much for these inspiring thoughts! Definitely exercise is a key to feeling more energetic and keeping the brain clear. Healthy diets also contribute to better sleep and focus. Adventure and change are a MUST! Keeps us on our toes, makes you feel alive and look at all the new things you can experience! 62 and feeling/ acting 20 !
62 and positive with an optimistic attitude and younger outlook. I can tell you now, at 77, that's a great way to go into your older years, Sarah. Thank you for your response.
https://www.mpoc.org.my/palm-oil-does-not-cause-cancer/
Thanks for this link. It's the first time I've seen something positive said about palm oil. I'll research it further.
I welcome change with open arms in many ways. I agree with a lot on your list diet, exercise, didn’t know about the palm oil and positive thinking can transform all of us. BUT Being old has enabled me the time to embrace change in myself, technology, and I also embrace being old ‘ Old and proud is my motto’. What is wrong with being old?
I know many disagree with my philosophy, but rather than rejecting being old I want to change how people view the process, as not something to be ashamed of, news, we grow older the minute we are born.
We are all different and many people struggle with exercise, their bodies and health are letting them down, positive thinking can be very difficult for some people living in isolation and they can just wither because they feel they are old - which is a dirty word and it means they deserve to be on the scrap heap. We should shout that being old has many many good things.
Being old not something to be ashamed, if we are ashamed of being old how are younger people expected to view the older person walking down the road? Yes I agree with the other things on the list, but we should show people being old is a badge of honour regardless of how our circumstances have shaped us, as the young do.
Hi Jo, Have you read my post 15 Good Things No One Tells You About Ageing? I have a similar post lined up suggesting more good things about ageing, for publishing. My whole philosophy about being old is the same as yours, except, perhaps, I am more optimistic and positive. I am not ashamed of being my age, nor do I ignore the changes that ageing brings. I believe in living the best life you can with what you have, but I also believe that we have choice, we can make a difference if we so choose. Positivity in your older years is not to be despised, it's to be welcomed, science tells us that, and I choose it. It doesn't come naturally, it's a choice I make. I'm sorry you find it difficult to see how we are aligned in most of our thinking about the subject. Challenging ageism is something that underlines much of what I write and it's why I write. It's not about rejecting your age, it's about accepting it, no matter what it brings, with optimism and resilience.
I think we agree on everything except the word old. We are often categorised as old for many reasons. My argument is let’s own the word rather than dismissing it. I can be old and positive as I was young and positive. Rhetoric matters including how certain words are viewed. I think my argument is I am old, positive and will live the best life I can but accept I am old.
I have always challenged ageism even when I was ‘young’ particularly to view being old as a virtue ❤️❤️
This was very good. Thank you.
Your article makes me smile. I have never met anyone less afraid of age as myself. I am almost 65 and looking forward to my next 50 years. It’s all good. Even the terrible parts.
Great attitude! I love your looking forward to the next 50 years. I'm 77 and I’ve been giving myself another 20 years since 70. I haven't stopped yet. Maybe at 80 (maybe not!)
Huge gratitude for your generosity and your wisdom…great job. Helpful and inspiring. I’ll be looking out for your posts not just because you give so much but because you have great things to say and share ….that eventually is what matters….your contribution to the wellbeing of this community. Thank you very much. If you have written any books, please let me know.
Thank you, Win. I'm so glad you enjoyed this post and found it inspiring. I have written a book and a workbook to go with it. I have a Book Shop tab on my Home Page which has the book, the pdf workbook and a free gift, which is also a pdf. The book is about my own journey into ageing, following the science for healthy living for over thirty years. I'm in my late seventies, fit and well, no medication, and want to share how I did it through this Substack and my books (more in the pipeline). I appreciate your comments.
Great article and practical useful advice. Thank you! I have a big problem with the Progressive insurance commercials who don’t want the “younger generation” to act like their parents! I think that’s ageism! I love talking to strangers and being involved in my community! If you don’t smile and say hi you’ll never know who you might meet! I don’t mean annoying chats- just a hi. You never know what another person needs. Having my dog with me practically everywhere I go has led me to people opening up and just connecting.
Turning 65 was a depressor for me, as Medicare came into play- thought I’d never age! But that feeling went away thankfully.
The only constant is change, so embrace it. And wear bright colors! 😊
“Happy in small ways”. That strikes a chord for me. We all seem to look for big moments but are they really the best? find happiness in small moments. Something to think about….
I love change. I feel like I'm 50 when in reality, I am 76 years young. And I love technology. Every time we get new devices, my husband refers to me as the technical guru in the family. I look at it like this if I'm going to pay that much money for a watch or a phone or an iPad I better know how to operate every single function.
I have tried so many times to fix (apparently) something simple with my Smartphone or Tablet. Ugh. Give me French conversation, conjugating Spanish verbs or a refresher in American history. These I love. My mind is sharp but not wired for the tech stuff. I am almost 74, and feel 50, maybe. Love life and am joyfilled every day!
Robin, will I think you're so much further ahead than I. I only speak English and not very well. Happy that you're living and loving your life every day. Like I said age is just a number and we don't have to act it.
I too am an older techie. This makes me glad I’m not afraid of them. I think not have technology in your life can isolate you as much as too much technology.
Oh, I agree 100%
I find that people’s expectations that at 65 you will retire is crazy. I work most days in my work Job, but also craft, travel, and have lots of lovely little grandchildren to enjoy is so young making. I have to work hard from no yelling at people I’m Not Retired….any one else understand?
That's the epitome of living life to the full, Suzanne. You are clearly never bored! :-)
True. Except when I want to be. Self care time.
Patricia, I'm not afraid of change at all. I actually enjoy variety so that's easy.
I feel about 30 years younger than my actual age and no one ever believes that I am my birth age. As far as technology bring it on. Before I resigned as an RN at the VA, which was about three years ago I was running 12 programs at one time on a computer so I'd say I'm pretty good there
Great article just found you on Substack in a feed and grateful to be here .
It's good to read from women who live life full on, which is how I see what you're doing, Kathleen; not afraid of change or technology and think yourself younger than your age. That's exactly how I am and I know there's many of us ,changing the way it is to be older. I'm so pleased you're here!
thank you, Patricia. I am glad to be here too.. let's rock the second half 💯
Absolutely!
Great common sense advice! Thank you. 68 here, with parents 89 & 88! Gotta stay active and engaged.
please share this and educate family and friends
I've noticed my older relatives dwelling in the past so much. They tell the same stories I've heard hundreds of times. The only new thing they seem to know is what Trump is up to. Becoming a lifelong learner is the only way to avoid dwelling in the past. Read new non-fiction books. Take an online course and get excited about a yoga class so you have something else to talk about. Instead of that one time, this guy named Bob, whom you worked with 400 years ago, did that thing that you need to force everyone else to listen to-- again.
I never want to be that kind of story teller. When you have nothing to look forward to in the present all you have is the past.
I really enjoyed this, especially number one: don’t talk about being old. Also fascinating was the fact that people think of themselves as older than their chronological age. I am nearly 68 but I have never really thought of myself as older than 11. When pressed, I have admitted to feeling 30.
Never lose the inner child 🙃
While ageism is rampant in our culture there is a subtle, and wonderful, shift beginning. We can see it everywhere from essays like this to Hollywood, which is finally embracing women over 35! Hopefully this will begin to create a paradigm shift which will result in us gaining value as we move through life rather than feeling like we are less valuable.
I love your excellent points Patricia!
Thank you, Donna. I'm so happy you enjoyed the post. I do belleve that older women are changing the way we age. We don't want to grow older the way our parents did and we want to change the narrative around ageing. We are all adding to that process of change.
Absolutely. The narrative has to change.