Millions of people over 50 are experiencing their most satisfying years yet, with many saying that reconnecting with old friends and reminiscing about the good times is bringing them more happiness than ever before.
A new study of 2,000 adults found that a quarter of those surveyed believe their 50s, 60s and beyond are the decades when people enjoy the most life satisfaction. Many put this down to knowing what they want out of life, having more time for the things they love, and enjoying deeper, more meaningful relationships.
The research, commissioned by Warner Hotels, also found that people in later life feel more emotionally grounded and are able to focus on their own well-being.
TV presenter Lisa Snowdon, who has been appointed Chief Joy Officer for Reserve by Warner Hotels, took to the streets of Chipping Norton to ask the public what they’ve rediscovered in later life that makes them happy.
The This Morning fashion host quizzed people on what brings them contentment as adults. Top answers included having the freedom to spend more quality time with loved ones, opportunities to explore new places, and a renewed focus on health and well-being.
Lisa, who is a passionate advocate for health, well-being and self-acceptance in your 50s and beyond, said: “I truly believe that age is just a number, and I’ve spent so many of my recent years rediscovering things that bring me happiness.
“Whether it’s restarting a hobby I had when I was younger, focusing more on my wellbeing and mindfulness or simply laughing till my cheeks hurt with people I love.
“Whatever age you are, it’s never too late to discover – or rediscover – something that will bring you contentment and fulfilment in life.”
The study also found laughing with loved ones is something that brings many people the most fulfilment when they get older, while 38 per cent prioritise looking after their physical and mental health.
Four in ten have even returned to activities they loved when they were younger to spark happiness in adulthood such as riding a bike, playing vinyl records, and roller-skating, all of which were popular pastimes they used to enjoy.
Indeed, 30 per cent claimed they were likely to pick back up at least one of the hobbies or interests they’d devoted time to during their younger years.
Many would also love to relive specific moments from their youth, such as laughing until their cheeks hurt, dancing like no one’s watching, and riding a bike with no hands.
The way people describe themselves has also changed over the years. While the most common words for their younger selves were “shy”, “quiet” and “sensitive”, today’s over-50s are more likely to describe themselves as “thoughtful”, “caring” and “kind”.
This newfound confidence may be down to the fact that 45 per cent say they’re learning to care less about what others think, and 35 per cent feel more confident than they used to.
David Murdin, spokesperson for Warner Hotels, said: “Well-being and fulfilment can look different for everyone – but they’re so important for living a joyful, balanced life.
“That’s why we commissioned the research, to find out how adults reconnect with what brings them happiness in later life.
“With the help of our Chief Joy Officer, Lisa Snowdon, whose own journey of rediscovery makes her the perfect voice for the campaign, we hope to inspire others to explore what brings them joy in their own lives.
“Lisa has spoken openly about her own experiences of perimenopause, self-acceptance, and the importance of prioritising wellbeing.
"It’s a great reminder for people that it’s never too late to discover (or rediscover) what you love.”
