Senior Rules to Happiness

As I am closing in on 70, I often think, "how on earth did I get to be this old, so quickly?". Decades pass, just like years used to. I now have a better understanding and an appreciation for "how good some people are for their age". 

It seems once a senior starts to crowd 80, you will hear them say, "Well, I'm almost 80 or 85 or 90", whatever the number may be. They like people to know their age, it is like a disclaimer for what they have just said or done. A common question is, "how old do you think I am?". Seniors should be proud of their age, only 2.3% of Canada's population is 85 years or older.  

I have been blessed to have several 90-year-olds in my life. I come from a long line of longevity. My grandmas were 96 and 98 when they passed away. Many of their children lived well into their 90s. Mom turned 90 last September and it suits her very nicely. Of course, during my very long career, many inspirational 90-year-olds have crossed my path.  

Some of my friends aren't as blessed as I am. Many share stories of their parents having their bodies intact, but their minds have let them down. I admire how my friends deal with this. They do what their parents are capable of and just enjoy being together. Life can be unfair at times. 

I think this will be a surprising fact for many. Only 15% of seniors live in care homes. There are so many self-sufficient, highly functioning seniors out there. Homecare and good supports have enabled them to stay in their own home longer. 

When I read an article about a survey of 150 people in their 70s, 80s and 90s, I was all in. It is a proven fact, the older an adult gets, the happier they are. I think seniors also become more "content" as they age. Here is my takeaway from the article. Rules that help seniors be happy, healthy and content.   

1. Modern medicine has transformed old age. The elderly have better access to pain management options. This keeps them more active. It seems nearly everything can be "replaced". The "replacements" available have made a senior's life so much better. Hearing aids actually work, they don't just squeal. A large majority have had at least one cataract surgery. There is a medication to fix nearly everything. It does take many appointments and specialists to keep them going, but they do keep going. 

2. They continue to learn and develop. Older people can continue to learn, although it takes longer than when they were younger. Stimulating the brain by engaging in new activities keeps them sharp. 

3. They become more grateful and content as they age. Most elders see their cup half full and maintain a positive attitude. Even though there are so many losses as a person ages, their mental health and sense of well-being usually improves. Many are grateful and content with what they have. They recognize they are lucky to be alive. Few Canadians make it to the age of 90, so they don't waste their time complaining.

4. They live in the present moment. People in their late 70s and older rarely make plans past 18 months. The uncertainties prevent them from long-term planning. By the age of 75 or 80 many have few regrets. They make peace with what has happened and the choices they have made. Conversations revolve around weather, sports and TV shows. Simple pleasures like coffee with a friend, taking a walk or admiring mother nature are what they enjoy. 

5. What really brings them joy are their relationships. Most seniors have shed demanding jobs and many responsibilities. They have the gift of "time" to spend with family. Families have a broad definition. People are collected along the way that are viewed as family. Friends become even more important as they age. 

I hope the five rules to happiness resonated with you. When I think of the people in my life that are over 70, I am surprised how well they are following the rules. At times I can spiral when I think of how I am aging. I realize age is just a number, but it is getting to be a big one. This survey has made me realize I need to put the "basic rules to happiness" in my toolbox of aging. They spoke to me, and I hope they did to you as well. In summary, make sure you "live life to the fullest" whatever that is for you.