"You can't help getter older, but you don't have to get old."- George Burns.

Are you someone who looked forward to your life after kids flew the nest and there were no more official duties, or the thought of an empty home and a lack of familiar routine made you anxious? Interacting with seniors in India has made us realize there is far more to life after sixty than just the senior citizen label. 

Not everyone appreciates getting the tag of being a senior citizen in society. Many people dread the approaching retirement day, the farewell from colleagues, and answering the cliched questions of what they plan to do now. Well, as a group closely associated with seniors living in India, we can say there is plenty of sunshine and happiness awaiting those reaching their silver years.  

Here are the Top Six benefits of healthy ageing that might resonate with you or give you a fresh perspective.

Time-finally! To do what you always wanted to:

The best part about touching the magical sixty is you can officially hang your boots; no more rushing to catch that bus or train to reach the workplace or meet deadlines. 

A senior lady we know took early retirement and used to proudly tell everyone who asked her how she would pass her time that she had a long list of hobbies to go after. She was busier and happier with all the extra time. Indeed, the silver years of one's life can be the best period to pursue long-forgotten creative pursuits or travel. 

A calmer outlook:

We have seen many a Goliath within families turning to meek mice, their egos and pride taking a beating with age. Ageing provides the sheath of wisdom that comes with dealing and coping with the highs and lows of life. As we age, we realize what truly matters is good health and peace of mind. Whatever else fades away in comparison. 

Saying yes to you:

More often than not, we live for our significant others in life, ignoring our wishes and needs in small and not-so-small ways. And then, there's a larger society whose unwritten rules we dutifully follow. As age catches up, we feel obliged to care for the self. We stop bothering about being judged for the choices we make. 

It makes us happy to see many seniors living in India enjoying a holiday with peers, joining various hobby clubs, and letting their hair down. 

Being a role model for the younger generation:

Seniors have a lot to give back in terms of knowledge and experience. What better time than now to volunteer in the neighbourhood activities and support a cause close to your heart? The upside to ageing is the authority and respect you can command to steer the youth and society toward betterment. When the young see the older generation engage in community services, it inspires them to do their bit. 

Senior citizen benefits:

Senior members of our society are eligible for benefits like a discounted rate in various areas like travel, shopping, medical, etc. While it might seem trivial, there is no harm in availing these and feeling good. After all, you have worked so hard all your life you deserve the payback. 

Gratitude and patience:

As numbers get added to our age, we develop a sense of gratitude towards the higher power who kept us in good health and going steady when things didn't go as planned. They say humility and patience come from life experiences that teach you that not everything is under your control. 

When we speak to seniors in our community, we sense their warmth and enjoy meaningful conversations. They teach you what you don't know without the condescending attitude of a know-it-all. These are virtues we can strive toward without waiting to cross sixty. Isn't it?