The Age-old Question: When Does “Old Age” Begin?”

Defining what age people are considered “old” seems to have more to do with who you ask. In one survey by U.S. Trust, millennials (defined as those between 21 and 36) said a person is old at around 59, while Gen Xers (those 37 to 52), thought old age begins at 65. Older folks including boomers (age 53 to 72) and the silent generation (73 and older) agreed old age doesn’t even start until you are at least 73 years old.   

On the other end of the spectrum, when each group was asked when one’s “youth” ends, millennials thought it was at age 40. Gen Xers and boomers said 31, and the silent generation felt one’s youth comes to an end at around 40.  

The AARP’s Disrupt Aging campaign wanted to see if perceptions change in regards to old age when people connect with those they consider old. The experiment began by inviting a group of millennials to meet and interact with a group of people in the age group the millennials had described as old. After spending time with the vibrant seniors, the Disrupt Aging campaign found the millennials had a change of heart in regards to thinking old age automatically meant a decline in abilities. 

In another study of Australia’s clinical settings, researchers concluded it is more accurate to describe older adults as “elderly based on physical health and medications rather than chronological age.” They found being elderly may be more of a feeling rather than just a number. Studies also find aging adults prefer the word “senior,” “senior citizen” or “older adult” better than elderly. 

At the new MorningStar at Observatory Park, we are honored to provide a level of assisted living that enables residents to live life as independently as possible. Our contemporary senior living community is in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area and offers a choice of 60 assisted living suites in studio to one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Amenities include a full salon, bistro, club rooms, art studio, fitness center and more. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our distinctive Reflections Neighborhood has 23 suites and is designed to elevate and celebrate life regardless of the level of memory loss. 

Please visit our website to learn more. We don’t want you to miss out as we are now leasing and premium suites are filling fast. 

Source: www.care.com/c/what-age-is-considered-elderly/