Updated 2026. My mother passed at age 97 (2024) RIP. I will be updating this site so I can help retirees again. Write to me!

Health, Aging and Energy

Aging is not just about health — it’s about energy, resilience, and adapting to a body that changes over time. This section focuses on the physical and mental realities of aging, including sleep, disability, and maintaining quality of life while honoring new limits.

Some age quicker than others, especially with a disability.

Aging is wildly individual.  Wherever you are on the aging journey, we will encourage awareness, compassion, and practical adjustments that help retirees feel their best.

Sleep (or the lack of it), as small it sounds in terms of life, is so darn important as we age!

As long as we live, we are aging... so why does that AGING word sound rather threatening now?

Bette Davis says "Getting Old Ain't for Sissies." and I have to agree. 

Let's look at each decade in aging!

Aging in Your 60s

“I don’t feel old… but I’m not young either.”

For many retirees, the 60s are a transition decade. People are often still active, independent, and mentally sharp — but subtle changes begin to show up.

Common physical changes

  • Energy isn’t as easy as it used to be
  • Recovery from illness, injuries, or late nights :)  takes longer
  • Weight may shift even with the same habits
  • Sleep can become lighter or more fragmented
  • Early joint stiffness or aches may appear

Common emotional & mental shifts

  • First real awareness of aging
  • Anxiety about health, money, or “did I retire too soon?”
  • Identity changes after leaving work
  • Comparison with peers (“Why do they seem fine and I’m tired?”)

This decade is often about recalibration — learning new rhythms rather than slowing down.

Aging in your 70s

“Things change faster now.”

The 70s often bring more noticeable physical changes, even for people who’ve always been healthy. This can be surprising and emotionally tricky.

Common physical changes

  • Reduced stamina and strength
  • Balance becomes more important, very important
  • Vision and hearing changes are more common
  • Chronic conditions may appear or increase
  • Greater need for routine health care and medications

Common emotional & mental shifts

  • Increased concern about independence
  • Grief begins to show up more often (friends, siblings, spouses)
  • A desire for simplicity — less stress, fewer obligations
  • More reflection on life meaning and legacy

This decade is about adaptation — learning how to protect energy and independence.

Aging in your 80s

“The body leads, and I follow.”

The 80s are often less about choice and more about adjustment. Many people are still mentally sharp, but your body requires more attention and support.

Common physical changes

  • Mobility challenges become more common
  • Falls are a real concern
  • Slower movement and reaction time
  • Increased fatigue
  • Greater reliance on others for transportation or daily tasks

Common emotional & mental shifts

  • Strong desire to maintain dignity and autonomy
  • Frustration with physical limits
  • Fear of becoming a burden
  • Loneliness can increase if social circles shrink

This decade is about preservation — maintaining quality of life, comfort, and connection.

Aging in your 90s

“Living with grace, not speed.”

Reaching your 90s is a remarkable achievement — and it comes with very specific challenges. Many people in this decade focus on comfort, routine, and meaningful moments.

Common physical changes

  • Frailty is common
  • Increased dependence on caregivers or family
  • Hearing, vision, and mobility are often significantly reduced
  • Illness recovery can be slow

Common emotional & mental shifts

  • Acceptance (often more than fear)
  • Strong attachment to familiar routines and people
  • Reflection on life lived
  • Desire for peace, reassurance, and presence

This decade is about gentleness — physical, emotional, and social.

The Big Truth

Aging is not a straight decline.

What actually changes is:

  • Energy
  • Recovery
  • Tolerance for stress
  • Need for support
  • Less patience for nonsense
  • Deeper appreciation for small joys
  • Stronger emotional wisdom
  • More clarity about what matters

Aging isn’t about becoming less; it’s about becoming different. And different requires understanding, not judgment.


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