Americans aged 65 to 80 do not think of themselves as being in their final years, according to Vi, a living community for older Americans. In fact, 82% of 65-80 year olds feel that they have much to look forward to, and 83% feel younger than they actually are. Nearly four in 10 (38%) have never had as much fun as they are having in their older age. A similar proportion (39%) have gotten more adventurous as they have gotten older.
While 72% enjoy the freedom to do whatever they want, and 42% do not miss the responsibility of work, 79% still feel productive in society.
Nearly half (46%) have more free time because they are no longer dealing with household chores. One “chore” they have not given up is cooking, with more than 80% preferring to cook at home over eating frozen or pre-prepared meals.
A majority is filling free time with plans to travel (57%) and to spend time with family (57%). Six in 10 (60%) exercise more than two or three hours a week. Half (50%) also say that having an active sex life is important to them.
One in four (40%) frequently like to treat themselves to new purchases, such as clothes or shoes. Nearly as many (37%) go out socially two or more nights a week. This reflects another sentiment held by older Americans: most are not worried about money. Only 17% are concerned that they will not have enough to get by. [Mature Market]
Source: “Next Chapter Study,” Vi, Tim Hermeling, 71 S. Wacker Dr., #900, Chicago, IL 60606; 312-803-8480; thermeling@viliving.com; www.viliving.com.
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