Happiness And Old Age

Cheryl T
Feb 28, 2023
4 min read

Updated: Oct 5

Happy older people enjoying time with friends — happy older people

Happiness And Old Age

"There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age." ~Sophia Loren

Getting old doesn't mean the end of happiness. We have a lot of joy left in us. It's our time to shine.

Our 20s, 30s, 40s, and maybe even our 50s are behind us now. Those midlife years were probably the toughest. Of course, they are also some of the most rewarding years. We were raising our families and working. Then we had all the school and athletic events. Most of us were on the go nonstop. I am sure that, at times, we miss those days, and then there are days when we cherish the idea that we are free to do what we please and when we please.

We have all our happy memories to look back on. And we still have some happy memories to make. And yes, we will make plenty of good memories. We are at a time in our lives when happiness may be more abundant than when we were younger.

We are no longer running the kids here and there. Many of us no longer even work. We are at a time when we can put ourselves first. Do the things we have wanted to do. Things that make us HAPPY!

Believe it or not, old age is a perfect time for happiness. Our kids have grown up with their own families, and we are likely no longer working. Many of us have been waiting for the day we could retire.

I firmly believe that each one of us is in control of our happiness. It's not something that happens to us, but something we can actively cultivate. It requires effort and intention, but the rewards are immeasurable. By choosing to focus on the things that bring us joy, we can create a life that is rich and fulfilling.

Take a moment to reflect on what truly brings you happiness. What are those things you must enjoy doing? What were those things you planned on doing when you had the time? Now is the time to start doing the things that bring you happiness.

7 Things That Should Make You Happy

1. Socialize with friends. A weekly lunch date, a regular morning phone call, or maybe join in on some activities at your local Senior Center. Senior centers offer a variety of activities and provide an opportunity to make new friends.

2. Spend time with family. Family get-togethers always make me happy. Sunday dinners, birthday parties, trips to the park, and days at the beach are all great ways to spend quality time together. But we flat out don't need a reason to get together. Make a phone call, set a time and place, and let the fun begin.

3. Spend some quiet time reading. Reading makes me happy. A good mystery or romance is a great way to spend some time. I have been an avid reader all my life. So for me, reading equals happiness. A good book, a comfortable chair, and perhaps a cup of tea make for a great afternoon.

4. Set some goals or challenges. Setting goals gives you a sense of purpose. Achieving your goals brings an incredible feeling of satisfaction and also fosters a deep-seated happiness. Maybe set monthly goals. How about walking three times a week for a month? Or what about volunteering at a local soup kitchen once a week? I am sure you can come up with some goal ideas.

5. Learn something new. It's essential to keep learning as we age. A great way to occupy ourselves is to learn something new. Do some research about a topic you find interesting. Maybe you have always wanted to write a book or a short story. Take an art class, a writing class, or a cooking class. Brush up on your technology skills.

6. Get involved in some hobbies. Did you once want to garden or maybe take a cooking class? Or perhaps learning a new language has been something you've always wanted to do. Plenty of great hobbies bring happiness and a sense of purpose. Try something new! How about birdwatching, painting, or learning to play a musical instrument?

7. Create a fun bucket list. You don't have to aspire to climb a mountain or ski the Alps. How about trying a new flavored coffee or creamer, or reading a book by an author you have not read before? Once a month, try a new restaurant for lunch. Travel somewhere you have never been but always wanted to visit. Short road trips can be a lot of fun.

8. Outdoor activities are something that many people enjoy. A morning walk, maybe hiking with a few friends. Appreciating the time spent in nature can be good for the soul. Remember, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for your overall well-being and happiness in old age.

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Don't forget to enjoy the little pleasures we all enjoy so much. The feel of the morning sun as you sit on your porch, having your morning coffee, and watching a rabbit scurry across your yard. Listening to the birds sing—a smile from a stranger. So many things bring a smile and a bit of happiness to us.

If unsure of what makes you happy, explore new things and see if anything clicks with you.

As Cameron Diaz beautifully puts it, Aging is not about getting old, it's about living. Learning to age well will help us age better. Let's celebrate and live an engaged life, and stop punishing ourselves for not looking a certain way. Instead, let's hold ourselves accountable for taking care of ourselves inside first, knowing the results on the exterior will be a shining side effect. This quote resonates with the message of this post-that happiness in old age is within our control and can be achieved through a positive outlook and self-care.