What Factors Define Old Age? Insights from a 25-Year German Survey

News Desk 

Islamabad: Recent research challenges the common perception of aging, suggesting that age alone may not determine one’s status as elderly.

According to a study published in the journal Psychology and Aging by the American Psychological Association, factors like happiness and health play crucial roles in defining old age.

The study, drawing data from a German survey spanning 25 years with over 14,000 participants, indicates a shifting perspective on aging. It suggests that the age at which individuals are deemed elderly is on the rise. For instance, recent surveys show that people over 60 now believe old age begins at 75, compared to 71 a decade ago.

This shift is attributed partly to longer life expectancies, changes in retirement age, and improved overall health in older adults. The perception of old age varies based on gender, health status, and general well-being, highlighting the complexity of aging as a concept.

As per the survey findings, women perceive the onset of aging to occur later than men.

The survey indicates a disparity in the perception of old age between genders, with men typically identifying someone as old approximately two years later than women do.

Additionally, individuals who live alone or experience health issues tend to regard themselves as old at a younger age compared to those who report being happy and in good health.