If you are 65 years old and reading this article, then you are among the seven percent fortunate people who have reached this age while living a healthy life. Yes, indeed. According to a World Bank report, in 2023, about 7.1% of India’s population is above the age of 65, and this is expected to rise to 10% by 2030.
India, which today considers itself a young nation, is gradually moving towards becoming a society with a significant senior population. Looking at the data, it is estimated that by 2050, nearly 350 million people in India will be above the age of 60.
Whenever we face even minor difficulties—whether related to health, finances, family, or any other reason—we tend to become anxious. But just pause and reflect: we are among those fortunate few out of a hundred who are still alive and well. I recently came across a very meaningful video on WhatsApp. It said that if we have food to eat, clothes to wear, and a roof over our heads, we are more fortunate than 75% of the world’s population who lack these basic necessities.
Let us stop complaining about life. Let us learn to be content with what we have. God has been kind to us in many ways. This life will not come again, so we should not waste it in sorrow, anger, resentment, hatred, or conflicts. Instead, we should stay engaged in positive activities, treat everyone with kindness, and live our lives joyfully. Yes, challenges do arise from time to time, but with God’s grace, we must gather the strength to overcome them and restore balance.
First and foremost, we must focus on our health. At this stage of life, both physical and mental well-being require equal attention. The body and mind are not separate—they influence each other deeply. Our goal should not merely be to live long, but to live a healthy and meaningful life. We should pray that we do not become a burden on others in our old age.
These days, we receive numerous messages on WhatsApp about different forms of exercise. In the mornings, one can often find people in parks guiding others through exercise routines. Television channels also offer a wealth of knowledge in this regard.
What matters most is our determination and willpower. Often, we begin with enthusiasm and commit ourselves to various health routines, but after some time, laziness tends to creep in. Senior citizens must ensure that they do not allow laziness to take hold. If we decide to dedicate two hours daily to yoga and exercise, there should be no compromise.
Experts emphasize two particularly important precautions for maintaining health in later years. First, avoid falls—since injuries from falls at this age can lead to serious complications, one must remain very careful. Second, prevent choking while eating or drinking. The risk of choking increases in older age because the throat and swallowing muscles become weaker. There is a Facebook group called “Never Say Retired Forum,” where daily posts related to senior health and other useful information are shared. Those who are on Facebook may consider joining it.
Healthy eating is equally important. At this age, most of us already understand what constitutes good nutrition. The key is to ensure that we do not drift toward unhealthy eating habits. Appetite may reduce over time, so it becomes even more important to focus on nutritious food.
To lead a happy life, good friends are essential. At this stage, it is not necessary to make new friends; instead, we should stay connected with our old ones. If they live nearby, we should meet them regularly. If they are far away, we should keep in touch through phone calls and messages.
We are fortunate—and to remain so, we must express our gratitude to God.
Author
The author is the founder of the Never Say Retire mission. In order to achieve this goal, he also runs this website and his Facebook group Never Say Retire Forum has Hundreds and Thousands of members today.
