We live in a society that has mixed views on aging. Therefore, defining what it means to grow old can be complicated. Does it have to do with genetics? Lifestyle? Attitude? Exercise routines and diets? Or its age simply an objective number? The answer is never cut and dry. It is likely a mixture of all of the above. It may also depend on the age of the person you ask.
A 95 year old Finnish woman set the record for the oldest person to complete a bungee jump. She claimed she always wanted to make the 500 foot plunge before she died. And according the this Huffington Post article, she did it. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to go bungee jumping or skydiving as you grow old. But it just goes to show that often times, our age really is mind over matter.
Ageism is the term used to describe negative stereotypes towards the elderly. It could be saying you can’t bungee jump at age 95. Or even the marketing of anti-aging products negatively impacts our views on aging. Studies show that seniors who hold those negative ideas on aging have more health problems than those who don’t. This could be due to a “self-fulfilling prophecy”. On average, those who feel healthy and vibrant in old age are more apt to take good care of themselves. And the opposite is true for those who feel old and deteriorated.
This isn’t to say that age is all mind over matter. The slew of health issues that accompany the aging process can really take a toll on us. However, it’s usually best to not base your perceptions of yourself on the number of years you have lived. Rather, view yourself in light of what you still can do. Whether it’s bungee jumping, skiing, or spending time with family, do it. As the saying goes, “Don’t regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.”