Yesterday, I read another blogger’s post about the question of aging. It really intrigued me because every day, we all get a day older.

This blogger proposed that in today’s world, people are living into their upper 80’s, 90’s, and 100’s, so why is it that one is barely happily adjusted to middle age, and then as soon as he or she hits 60, they are old, useless, and ready for retirement.

A very sad thought to ponder on. However, is 60 the beginning of “old age”? For many, this question may seem nonsensical. However, it is definitely a question that needs to be addressed.

The blogger pointedly asked why this select age classification still exists. Why would anyone want to spend a third of their lives being labeled useless and old? The answer is, they don’t. This blogger stated that  the age span currently relied upon was put into place almost a hundred years ago when the average life span was 60 to 70 years old. Undoubtedly, we need a new perspective, a new purpose, and a different viewpoint for our lives. In today’s world, people need to stop thinking in terms of 20-year differentials and find new classifications for life and longevity.

According to the blogger, classifications currently define age in this time span: child and youth (up to age 20); young adult (20 to 40); middle-aged (40 to 60);  old age (over 60).

So, the question posed today is why does society impose an unspoken rule that one’s usefulness in life stops at 60? For decades, people have looked forward to retirement. However, the reality within today’s world is that many people can not afford to retire. Another reality is that not everyone is ready for retirement. For many, work creates an opportunity for interaction with others, and it provides more funds for travel and fun adventures now and later when a person decides to retire.

Let’s ponder this thought. As the lifespan increases, the outdated classifications need to be changed or just dropped. Seriously, why does one’s life have to be classified by age? The author of the blog proposed that we find a new measurement for this evolving age range, such as youth: 0-20, young adult: 20-50, middle-aged (50-80), and as yet unnamed generation (80-120). Coming up with a name for this awesome generation is hard. Many within this age range survived the great depression, WWII, and a plethora of hardships, so those now in the 80+ age range might be labeled heroes. However, as each younger generation ages, someone will eventually discover the perfect unique acronym for those 80+… not old, not aged, not antiques. Perhaps…. you can come up with a name…

As for me, I’m going to do a little research to discover the original post that sparked my interest on this subject. If or when I find it, I’ll share it on my blog.

Blessings to all my young and young at heart readers!

SKE