The emotions of aging
21 Aug 2021 by Ted Escobedo
2 min read
If you find yourself spending too much time looking into the rearview mirror of life, you may be experiencing a midlife, or later-life, crisis. You’re not alone: In fact, recent research found that one in three people over the age of 60 will go through this experience. Here’s what experts recommend:
Reframe what it means to get older.Instead of lamenting what you never did, or what you’ve lost, think about this time as a chance to take on new challenges and embrace life in a new way. For example, if you’re approaching or in retirement, you may have more time and freedom to pursue volunteering or travel.
Share your feelings.Find a friend you can confide in—one who will let you answer the question "How are you?" honestly. You might find that your friend is experiencing (or has gone through) similar feelings and can share coping strategies. Research shows that writing in a journal or a blog is another healthy way of letting out feelings, and that can help minimize the chances of becoming depressedEnjoy movement.Regular physical exercise boosts both your energy and your mood, and it reinforces your power to take charge of your own health and well-being. Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/caregiving/caregiver-guides/coping-with-a-later-life-crisis