Turning 60? You’re likely to be happier than you were at 18.
A June 2 column in Canada’s Globe and Mail, described a 2008 survey of 340,000 Americans, ages 18 to 85. The results may surprise you.
People at 18 feel pretty good about themselves. It’s downhill from there, apparently, until 50. After 50, there is a sharp reversal with people getting happier as they age.
Stress is at its lowest point at 85.
Worry drops off sharply after 50.
Enjoyment and happiness rise steadily between 50 and 75, declining very slightly after that. But never as low as in the early 50s.
Researchers aren’t sure why; it could be environmental, biological, or psychological changes.
While scientists are figuring out why, we can bask in the knowledge that after 60 we have many years of enjoyment and happiness to look forward to. These may, indeed, be the best years of our lives.
What do you think of this? Click on Comments below and write away.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I read this study too and I have to say it has been true for me! Life just keeps getting better and better the older I get (apart from the annoying physical aging part!). It’s easier to know my limits now than when I was younger and easier to live them. I think we’ve learned from our mistakes over the years, so we have to be a little more together!
Hi, Dorothy! This study is showing up in many places. I think we’re thirsty, parched even, for info that paints a more hopeful, optimistic picture of growing older. You & I are part of spreading the word that 50s, 60s, and beyond can be great years!