Welcome to Adventures in Olderland. Read This First 🏁
“You can live to be a hundred if you give up all things that make you want to live to be a hundred.”—Woody Allen.
In 2025, I reached 65 and officially became “old”. Or so the Office for National Statistics tells me. I’ve joined the 12.5 million people in the UK—around 18% of the population—in the same boat. Despite being reluctant to join my fellow ancient mariners, things are already looking up. Before 1974, I’d have been unceremoniously filed under “the elderly”. Now, thanks to gerontologist Bernice Neugarten, I’m part of the more palatable “Young-old” for the next few years. A small linguistic tweak, perhaps, but one that blows a welcome bit of wind into my ageing sails.
Instead of stepping into the “waiting room for death”, I’m apparently entering the “third age”—a stage defined not by frailty and decline but by the freedom that emerges when the grind of work recedes. For those that can afford it, leisure, purpose and community begin to take centre stage. What’s more, we’re a rapidly growing tribe, expected to expand by another 17% in the coming years—a kind of second baby boom, only with a few more aches and pains.
But statistics only get you so far. What does this actually mean for people like us? How do we use whatever time we have left to be happy, healthy and independent? I’ve always fancied the idea of wearing out rather than rusting—though ideally not just yet. if you’ve reached my age, you’ve likely hit a few bumps in the road—I certainly have (more about them next time). But I try to keep one thought front and centre: growing older is an extraordinary privilege. For countless people across history—and many today—it’s an experience they never got to have. Remembering that helps me face the years ahead with a little more curiosity, a little more courage, and a lot more gratitude.
Which brings me to why I’m starting this blog. Now that I’m a permanent resident in ‘Olderland’ I hope to have some adventures exploring what ageing well could look like, and then share the results with you—whether they help, amuse, or simply demonstrate what not to do. Think of me as part journalist, part lab rat, and a willing crash-test dummy for all things ageing. If you’re a new arrival to Olderland or just visiting, you’re welcome to join me. My ‘Adventures in Olderland’ are just getting started.
Until next time.👋
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. The needs of every reader are unique; please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medication. Never ignore professional medical advice because of something you read online.