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SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | MAY 2025 17 By Karen Range, Resident Have you heard the catch phrase "80 is the new 60"? The idea that "80 is the new 60" indicates that perceptions of aging may be changing and that people in their 'golden years', even in their 80s, are not necessarily 'over-the-hill'. So is there truth to the statement and evidence to support a change in perception? According to an article in e Harvard Gazette, both life span and health span have increased. The article states that, as a result, "more older people than ever seem to lead healthy lives, engaged in a full range of activities — including in business, science, politics, and cultural and civic life." People in their 80s who are thriving have several things in common, including a lifetime of healthful and nurturing environments, access to medical care, education, meaningful relationships, physical activity, nutrition, and engagement with people. Many people in their 80s and 90s are continuing to work, pursue hobbies, travel, and engage in various activities, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to an active and fulfilling life. I interviewed three local persons for this article whose life styles support what the experts say is important for living long, healthy and meaningful lives. Jane is 82. She contributes her good health and active life to heredity, as her mother lived to be 95. She walks a mile two to three times per week and maintains consistent weight. She keeps her mind sharp by performing accounting duties part-time. She also holds a leadership position in her church. She describes herself as a caring person who values her close friendships. Jane feels it is very important to have a positive attitude in life, forgiving people and not holding onto anger or grudges. Ivan, who is 83, has always been active. He has been a cyclist for 60 years and still rides 60 miles, three times per week. He does not follow a specific diet but says that his wife "feeds him well." Ivan also mentioned heredity as a contributing factor. He also feels it is important to have a positive outlook on life. Ivan's philosophy is to live life to the fullest today, recognizing that nothing can be done about the past, and making some plans for the future. Dixie has just become an octogenarian. She explained that as an accountant she used to have a sedentary life. After a bad accident where she was not recovering well, she decided to "heal herself." At the age of 65, she became a licensed Zumba instructor. She remains active today doing squats, wall push-ups, leg lifts and other exercises. She also takes a one-mile walk every day with her dog. She follows a diet plan that eliminates all processed food. She says that completing complicated knitting patterns keeps her mentally alert. She also said that belief in God, a sense of humor, and a positive attitude are important to her, along with maintaining deep friendships. Jane, Ivan and Dixie are just three examples of seniors whose lives demonstrate that 80 really can be the new 60.

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