Feeling Young at Heart: The Evolution of Perceived Aging
- by Frank Ochmann
- 8 Min
Experience of aging now provides more comfort compared to past times. - Current advancements make aging a more comfortable experience compared to past years.
Recounting an anecdote from her early 80s, my elderly friend shared a chilling sentiment with my mother, "This can't last much longer." Her words echoed a palpable fear that lingered long after the initial jest. My mother, who was approaching 90, chuckled but soon revealed a sobering truth, "I don't feel that old at all."
Over the decade since my mother's passing, I've found myself grappling with this sentiment, especially as I've entered my late 60s. In deep reflection, I struggle to pinpoint an age, a number that represents how I feel. Instead, I recall the comforting words of my doctor, "Everything's fine. See you next time!"
The students of aging
The concept of feeling young at heart isn't mere folklore; it's rooted in psychological, social, and emotional dimensions of aging. Research on the subjective experience of aging reveals numerous insights, including the notion of "felt age" and its influential factors.
Embracing Aging: Subjective Successful Aging
Robert Havighurst, a pioneer in gerontology, introduced the concept of subjective successful aging in 1961, emphasizing the crucial role of self-appraisal in aging well. The principle underscores the importance of remaining active and engaged in meaningful pursuits to ensure a positive aging experience[3].
It's all in the mind: The Felt Age
The phrase "felt age" encapsulates the subjective perception of a person's aging process, which is heavily influenced by psychological factors such as self-perception, life satisfaction, and health status. Measures like the Attitudes Toward Own Aging (ATOA) are increasingly significant for health outcomes from midlife onward[4].
Age and Happiness: The Case of Delayed Retirement
Research in China revealed that delayed retirement can boost subjective well-being among older adults, primarily through increased social capital and a sense of accomplishment. The impact varies depending on factors like gender and income, with men and wealthier individuals reaping the most substantial benefits[1].
Aging Gracefully: Health and Happiness
Studies show that subjective aging can overrule traditional health predictors. Individuals with severe disabilities may claim to be aging well if they hold a positive outlook, while those with no chronic illnesses may struggle if they feel socially isolated[3].
Ageism: A Growing Concern
The impact of ageism on older adults, like senior physicians, can negatively affect their subjective experience of aging, damaging their self-perception and general well-being[5].
In Conclusion
Understanding the multi-faceted factors that influence the subjective experience of aging is key to fostering fulfilling and successful aging experiences. Fortifying social connections, cultivating psychological well-being, and maintaining physical health all contribute to a more positive narrative as we journey through the passage of time.
- "I'm not going to be able to do this." - As I venture into the later stages of life, I've found myself grappling with the sentiment that I might not be able to keep up with the demands of personal-growth activities in the realm of education-and-self-development, just as my elderly friend once did.
- "Everything's fine. See you next time!" - Reflecting on my doctor's reassuring words, I've come to realize that a positive attitude about aging (or science, for that matter) plays a significant role in maintaining good health and wellness, aligning with the concept of subjective successful aging.
- "The impact varies depending on factors like gender and income, with men and wealthier individuals reaping the most substantial benefits" - While researching the relationship between delayed retirement and subjective well-being, it became apparent that the experience of aging can be influenced by external factors such as personal circumstances, reminiscent of the difference in the perceived aging of my elderly friend and mother.
