October 1st was (apart from Nigeria’s Independence Day) International Day for Older Persons, a special day to appreciate seniors and celebrate that getting older is a beautiful and amazing part of life. This year’s theme, “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide,” is close to our hearts. It highlights the need for solid care and support systems to help older adults live better. Let’s look at some fun facts about growing older to celebrate our seniors!
- You Get Better at What You Do!
As you age, you get better at many things. It’s called crystallised intelligence. This means all the knowledge and skills you’ve gathered over the years sharpen with time. Your vocabulary, expertise, and long-used abilities grow stronger. Amazing.
- Not a Morning Person? That Might Change!
Older adults tend to go to bed earlier, wake up refreshed, and feel energised in the mornings. They no longer wake up disoriented, grumpy, and tired from a night of doomscrolling and other favoured nocturnal activities.
- They Can Take on Anything.
With age comes wisdom. The more life experiences you have—both good and bad—the better you handle challenges. Your mind becomes more flexible, allowing you to see things from different perspectives and make smarter decisions.
- Seniors Have Lots of Free Time.
After retirement and once the children are fully independent, there’s more time to enjoy life. Whether travelling, revisiting old hobbies, or spending time with grandchildren, seniors can fully embrace their newfound freedom.
- We are Living Longer.
Life expectancy is increasing, and seniors are living longer than in past decades. According to WHO, Nigeria’s life expectancy increased to 63 years in 2021. This means more time to spend with family and to build beautiful relationships.
- More Happiness as You Age
Seniors have been found to be happier than the younger generation. Older adults often have fewer worries than younger people. With many major life responsibilities behind them, they tend to be more relaxed and content, aside from health issues.
- Goodbye to Sweating!
When we grow old, our skin loses collagen, thins out, and our sweat glands close. This means no more smelly sweats. However, it can also mean it’s harder to regulate body temperature during physical activities.
- Fewer Colds
Older adults have built up a resistance over the years to the common cold. As we age, our immune systems build up a stronger defence against certain illnesses, especially the common cold. Seniors have been exposed to many different viruses, which helps them develop antibodies to fight off future infections. This means they’re less likely to get sick compared to younger people.
- Seniors Watch More TV
Studies show that people over 65 spend more time watching TV than any other age group. Many older adults find comfort and entertainment in television, especially if they have more free time after retirement. For some, it’s also a way to stay informed or even feel connected to the world outside.
- More Time for Loved Ones
Without the demands of work and raising children, seniors have more time to relax, play, and connect with family and friends, making the most of these precious moments.
These fun facts remind us to appreciate the seniors around us and treat them with love and respect. At @Ìtọ́jú, our professional and compassionate caregivers are here to provide the respect and care your loved ones deserve. For more information about our services and luxury senior living care homes, contact us today.
