The New Middle Age

Researchers are suggesting that 60 is the new middle age. The claim has been made by Sergei Scherbov, the world population program deputy director at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis in Austria.

Dr Scherbov has been working on a study of future population projections for Europe, up to the year 2050.

The study, led by Professor Warren Sanderson, of Stony Brook University in the US, notes that if old age is fixed at a certain point, the proportion of old people will rise because of increasing life expectancy. If the threshold for being old is moved to take into account longer lives, the proportion of old people actually falls over time.

Dr Scherbov said: "What we think of as old has changed over time, and it will need to continue changing in the future as people live longer, healthier lives."

"Someone who is 60 today, I would argue is middle aged," he said, adding that 200 years ago, a 60-year-old would be a very old person.

The study says that, with people living longer, healthier lives, age should not just be a number we reach but a reflection of the life we lead.

To live that longer, healthier life – get involved. Choose regular exercise that you enjoy. The people who love the exercise they do see it as a joy, rather than a chore. Don't be afraid to mix up the exercise you do, or even to try something new. As long as it feels good to your body – it will be doing its job. Being sedendary is one of the most aging things you can do – movement inspires confidence, great posture and a love of life.

While most of us need to keep an eye on our diet so that our waistline stays under control, don't be so vigilant that food becomes a chore rather than a pleasure. Have that square of dark chocolate, or indulge occasionally and really enjoy it.

A lack of sleep plays havoc with our skin, our memory, our immune system and our mood. IF you have regular sleep disturbances, seek help from a GP or health professional – it is one of the best things you can do for your health! Learn also to quiet your mind. Meditation comes in many forms, but we all benefit from giving our busy brains a moment to recharge.

Laugh as often and as heartily as you can – a great outlook on life and attitude is infectious, in the best possible way. Strive to live with a  twinkle in youe eye and a keen sense of fun.