- Written by Frank Ochmann
- 8 Min
Experiencing aging has become more tolerable or even enjoyable compared to past times. - Modern Aging Experiences Enhanced Comfort Compared to Previous Generations
Remember my ma at 80+, chatting with her elderly mate in the garden? When the friend proclaimed, "This won't last long," my ma laughed it off, but the statement lingered in her mind. I can still recall her saying, "Imagine, I'm almost 90, but I don't feel that aged at all."
Fast forward a decade, and here I am, creeping up on the second half of my 60s. When I take a moment to introspect, I can't help but wonder what my "felt age" is. The number doesn't just pop into my mind; it's more like the doctor's reassuring words: "Everything's A-ok. Until next time!"
The True Feel of Growing Older
Why do we keep hearing, "You're as young as you feel"? Well, there's some truth in that old chestnut. After my ma's passing, the saying has resonated with me even more. Aging today ain't what it used to be.
Boosted Health and Fitness for All Ages
Modern advances in healthcare and wellness have made a noticeable impact on older adults' lives. Regular exercise, aided by smart technologies, promotes better physical fitness and reduces mental issues, improving quality of life (QoL)[4]. Regular check-ups and care regimens ensure these improvements.
Mental Strength and Community Ties
Age-old worries like loneliness and feelings of incompetence are becoming a thing of the past. A greater emphasis on well-being and active participation in society contributes to better mental health and overall happiness. Socializing, both online and offline, breaks down barriers and strengthens connections, ensuring that older adults feel supported and valued[4][5].
Quality Life in a Modern World
QoL isn't just physical health or mental wellness. It encompasses various aspects, such as safe living environments and strong communities. Policymakers strive to improve resources for older adults, ensuring their preferences and needs are taken into account for a more positive impact on their subjective aging experiences[5].
Successful Aging - The New Way to Grow Old
Research indicates that attitudes toward one's own aging (ATOA) play an essential role in shaping health and well-being from midlife onward[3]. Modern society tends to celebrate aging and encourages older adults to prioritize healthy living and self-improvement, fostering an optimistic outlook on growing older.
In essence, better physical health support, social connections, quality of life enhancements, and positive attitudes toward aging combine to create a more enjoyable and rewarding aging experience. These improvements come from both personal changes and broader cultural shifts in how society blends health promotion, social engagement, and policy frameworks[3][4][5].
I'm not going to be able to deny the positive impact of modern advances in science, health-and-wellness, and mental-health on aging. Today, feeling younger than my actual age seems possible as I witness improvements in physical fitness, reduced mental issues, social connections, and overall quality of life for older adults.
