‘Over 60s are the happiest they have ever been in life’
THOUSANDS of people aged over 60 in Wales are experiencing the happiest phase of their life, according to new research from an older people’s charity.
The study, released to launch GrandFest Cymru 2017, a one-day festival celebrating older people and their craft skills, found that 58% of over 60s in Wales agree they are happier now than they have ever been.
Furthermore, nearly two-thirds (61%) believe they are still in the prime of their life.
Growing a bit long in the tooth comes with many perks, according to the study. More than six in 10 of those surveyed in Wales agreed that one of the best things about getting older is having more time to do what they want.
Other benefits include worrying less about things that aren’t important (41%), no longer caring what people think (37%) and being able to speak their mind (26%).
The poll also shows that action and attitude have an equal impact on their wellbeing.
Sharing their top 10 secrets to a happy and healthy older age, 78% of over 60s in Wales agreed that keeping their brain active was important while 66% cited having a positive outlook on life.
Laughter (62%) and regular exercise (57%) were also recognised as important components.
And while not making the top 10 most popular responses, over one fifth (21 %) also said intimate relations were a key ingredient to staying happy and healthy in later life.
GrandFest, taking place at St Fagans National Museum of History on Sunday, July 9 (11am-4pm), is a one-day festival created for the older generation to share craft skills such as embroidery, quilting, wood turning and bread-making through a series of masterclasses.
Each of the classes will be led by a talented original GrandMaker, aged 70 or over, at various locations in St Fagans.
David McCullough, chief executive of the Royal Voluntary Service, which conducted the survey, said: “It’s heartening to find out so many people say life gets better as you age.
“Those flourishing in older age are the ones keeping active and engaged and continuing to enjoy their hobbies.
“Older people can teach us a lot – not just about how to age well but also by passing on their skills. We are delighted to be bringing GrandFest to Wales. It is the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill or hobby from the original makers.”
Royal Voluntary Service ambassador and BBC radio broadcaster Roy Noble said: “My secret in life is to keep on keeping on. I am beyond retiring age, but I’ve waltzed past it.
“I enjoy broadcasting and I relish the private, one-to-one relationship of radio. Everyone has a story to tell, a right to be, a contribution to make.
“If you are able to extend a helping hand or share a valid expertise, remember there’s no better exercise for your own heart than lifting up the spirits of others.”
Actress and Royal Voluntary Service ambassador Dame Patricia Routledge, age 88, said: ‘Depending, of course, on reasonably good health, I think the secret of a fulfilled and contented later life is to keep the mind open; take an interest in local, national and international affairs; exercise in moderation; enjoy the company and friendship of younger people and hold fast to your sense of humour!”
Determined to stay active, over 60s in Wales are also snapping up opportunities to fill their time and learn new skills.
In fact, 33% are planning a big travel trip, over a quarter (27%) are planning to or currently learning a new skill such as gardening, cooking, knitting and DIY, and 32% are currently volunteering or planning to start.
A new romance is being sought by 6% while one in 20 (5%) are using their golden years to learn how to drive.
GrandFest is being supported by McCarthy & Stone, the UK’s leading retirement housebuilder who will host a series of GrandFest related celebrations at its developments across the country.
Clive Fenton, chief executive officer for McCarthy & Stone said: “Older people have so many traditional skills to share. Skills that we as a nation, do not want to lose.
“And that’s what GrandFest is all about.
“It’s a free, fun event to celebrate talented older people and the heritage skills they can pass down through the generation.”