Old or Age-Rich? You choose.

Are you getting older or more age-rich? 

Which one you choose matters. Research shows that expectations, attitudes and mindset impact even our health. There’s no obligation to accept outdated societal ideas about ageing. Things may change as you get more age-rich, but slow-down and a steady decline is not inevitable.

I was thrilled when I came across this brilliant Swedish expression (“åldersrik”) in a lecture. Expressions like ‘young at heart’ seem to me to miss the mark. It’s not about being young, but rather about appreciating the age you are - and language matters. 

The idea that there’s wealth in years conjures up both wisdom and opportunity. We can be rich in years, and as well as in health, strength and mind. Why put up boundaries when you don’t need them? Even if the body does play up, the fun, curiosity and exploration never needs to end.