Many of us from the boomer generation grew up with certain expectations around aging: that it inevitably brings illness, loneliness, and a gradual decline. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We have the power to change how we age, and more importantly, how we perceive aging.

As sociologist Deborah Carr points out in her 2023 book, Aging in America, recent cultural, technological, and economic shifts mean that the older adults of 2050 will be living drastically different lives than today’s retirees. We now have the resources and knowledge to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives—if we’re willing to embrace change. Learn more about Aging in America here.

Learning from the Past

Reflecting on my parents’ lives, I realize that while they were not perfect role models, I can learn from their mistakes. This reflection has led me to adopt healthier habits that I hope will allow me to age better.

By making small but impactful changes, we can defy the traditional aging narrative that many of us grew up with. Studies show that making health pledges or commitments can help us stay accountable and encourage us to make incremental changes toward better health. This study from the National Institute on Aging highlights the positive impact of health commitments on aging adults.

The Power of Positive Perception

Once someone starts thinking of themselves as “falling apart,” ill, or “old,” it’s easy to fall into the trap of negative self-expectations. According to the World Health Organization, older adults who face ageism tend to live, on average, 7.5 years less than those with a positive outlook on aging. This stark contrast highlights how critical it is to approach aging with optimism.

Becca Levy, a professor of public health and psychology at Yale, has conducted numerous studies revealing that older people with positive perceptions of aging perform better physically and cognitively than those with negative views. In her book, Breaking the Age Code: How Your Beliefs About Aging Determine How Long and Well You Live, Levy explains that people with positive views about aging not only live longer but also recover better from disabilities, retain cognitive abilities, and even walk faster. Learn more about Breaking the Age Code here.

Taking Action for a Better Future

As we rethink aging, we must also be proactive in improving our health. According to an article in The Washington Post, adopting small habits—like getting hearing aids when necessary—can lead to greater well-being in the long run. Read more about how to improve your aging process in the Washington Post article here.

By embracing these insights and taking action, we can age in a way that is vibrant and fulfilling, not defined by decline. Now is the time to make better choices, to lead healthier lives, and to challenge the age-related stereotypes that limit us. The power is in our hands to age better than our parents did.