Surveys indicate that happiness and aging often create a U-shaped curve. The happiness level tends to decrease gradually from youth through middle age, then increases during your 40s and 50s. About one in three people in their 60s report being "very happy," which is slightly more than those under 35. Life experiences likely teach you to appreciate joyful moments and understand that tough times will eventually pass. However, your later years can introduce new challenges, such as health concerns, financial issues, and the loss of loved ones. 

CANCER RISKS 

If you receive a cancer diagnosis, it will most likely happen when you’re in your 60s. Half of all breast cancer cases are found in women aged 61 or older. For colon cancer, the average age of diagnosis is 68. Being older significantly increases your chances of developing various types of cancer. It’s important to keep up with recommended screenings. Talk to your doctor about how often you should have mammograms, colonoscopies, or prostate tests. 

HEARING LOSS 

Wait … what? Four out of ten Americans in their 60s struggle with hearing. This issue is one of the most common aspects of aging. As you age, the hair cells in your inner ear naturally die off. Other factors like infections, heart problems, strokes, head injuries, or certain medications can also affect your hearing. Surprisingly, 80% of people who could benefit from hearing aids do not use them. Most of those who do wait, on average, over ten years before seeking help. 

WEIGHT CREEP 

No, getting older doesn’t have to mean gaining weight. While it’s true that your metabolism—how fast your body burns calories—often slows down with age, a poor diet and lack of physical activity are likely bigger reasons for weight gain in your 60s. So, stay active and build muscle to help burn more fat. And Watch What You Eat.

SKIN CHANGES 

In your 60s, the top two layers of your skin—the epidermis and dermis—become thinner and flatter. Your skin may feel drier and itchier, and it might start to look like crepe paper or tissue. You’ll notice more wrinkles, age spots, creases, and bruises. Additionally, your sweat glands become less active, which means you might not sweat as much, but any cuts or scrapes on your skin may take longer to heal. 

HEART TROUBLES 

As you reach your mid-60s and beyond, you are at a higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans. While you can’t reverse the effects of aging, there are many steps you can take to keep your heart healthier. Avoid smoking, and try to cut down on salt, sugar, and saturated fats found in meats and dairy products. Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking, yoga, swimming, or other forms of physical activity each day. 

BRAIN POWER 

Many people in their 60s begin to realize that their thinking skills may not be as sharp as they once were. You might find it takes longer to remember names and facts, identify patterns, or solve problems. This mental decline may continue as you get older. However, your vocabulary, knowledge, and long-term memory are likely to remain steady. 

Vision 

By the time you reach 65, you have a 1 in 3 chance of developing eye diseases such as cataracts, dry eye, or glaucoma that can affect your sight. One major risk is age-related macular degeneration, which damages the central vision necessary for reading and driving. It's important to have your eyes examined every year, even if you don't notice any issues. Most eye diseases don't cause pain, but if detected early, they can be treated effectively. 

Bones and Joints 

As you age and become less active, your body may feel stiff and creaky. Keep an eye out for weak muscles and joints that make popping and cracking sounds. Talk to your doctor about whether calcium and vitamin D supplements could help strengthen your bones. Women should have a bone scan at age 65 to check for osteoporosis, known as the “brittle” bone disease. Men should also consult their doctor to see if screening for osteoporosis is necessary for them. 

Sleep Quality 

Even in your 60s, you still need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. However, getting good rest can become more difficult. As you age, your body produces less of the sleep hormone melatonin, which can make it tough to fall asleep and stay in deep, restorative sleep. Taking naps during the day can also disrupt your nighttime rest. 

Rising Blood Pressure 

As time goes by, fatty deposits can accumulate in your arteries, similar to a clogged drain. Additionally, your large arteries become stiffer with age, a condition known as arteriosclerosis. This added pressure can cause your blood pressure to rise. Your readings might be alarmingly high, yet you may not experience any symptoms. However, high blood pressure can lead to serious problems such as stroke, vision loss, and other health issues. 

BLADDER CONTROL 

If you find yourself getting up frequently to use the bathroom during the night, your age might be a factor. As you get older, your bladder tissues can become less stretchy and hold less urine. Additionally, urinary incontinence, which means you might leak urine when you cough or sneeze, becomes more common as you age. 

IMMUNITY 

By the time you reach 60, your body nearly stops producing new T cells, which are responsible for detecting and attacking germs and other harmful invaders. This means you may find it harder to avoid infections, or it may take you longer to heal. Vaccines may not provide the same level of protection as they did before. After turning 65, you might need a higher-dose flu vaccine. Also, remember to get vaccinated for shingles and pneumococcal disease, as these conditions are more likely to affect you after you turn 60. 

TEETH 

About 30% of people over 65 experience dry mouth. This is usually a side effect of certain medications, but it can also result from diabetes or other health issues. Your risk of developing oral cancer in your 60s is nearly four times higher than that of someone who is 20 years younger. Make sure to visit your dentist regularly.