The Official Term: Sexagenarian
While not a term used in everyday conversation, the formal designation for a person in their sixties is a sexagenarian. The word has Latin roots, derived from sexāgēnārius, which means “sixty each” or “containing sixty”. This applies to individuals from 60 to 69 years of age, making it the correct term for a 63-year-old.
The term can be used as both a noun (e.g., "the sexagenarian enjoyed a long career") and an adjective (e.g., "the sexagenarian years of life"). It is part of a larger, lesser-known set of words that denote a person's decade of life, offering a more precise, though formal, way of identifying a person's life stage.
Other Terms for People in Their Decades
To better understand how "sexagenarian" fits into the larger scheme, here is a list of other decade-based age terms:
- Denarian: 10–19 years old
- Vicenarian: 20–29 years old
- Tricenarian: 30–39 years old
- Quadragenarian: 40–49 years old
- Quinquagenarian: 50–59 years old
- Sexagenarian: 60–69 years old
- Septuagenarian: 70–79 years old
- Octogenarian: 80–89 years old
- Nonagenarian: 90–99 years old
- Centenarian: 100–109 years old
Baby Boomer vs. Sexagenarian
While "sexagenarian" is based on the current decade of a person's life, "Baby Boomer" is a generational label tied to the year of birth. The Baby Boomer generation includes those born between 1946 and 1964. Given these dates, anyone who is 63 years old in 2025 was born around 1962, placing them squarely within the Baby Boomer demographic.
Generational identity is often shaped by shared experiences, cultural shifts, and historical events. For Baby Boomers, this includes the post-WWII economic boom, the Civil Rights movement, and advancements in technology that have reshaped society throughout their lives. Therefore, a 63-year-old carries both the formal label of a sexagenarian and the cultural identity of a Baby Boomer.
The Shifting Definition of "Senior Citizen"
The term "senior citizen" is another common label for older adults, but its definition is more fluid than the strict decade-based terms. Eligibility for discounts, government benefits, and social programs can vary widely. For instance, eligibility for Medicare often starts at age 65, while some senior discounts are available as early as 50 or 55. This demonstrates that society's perception and practical application of "senior" status can differ from the formal terminology.
Gerontologists sometimes categorize older adults into finer life-stage subgroups to reflect the vast differences in life experiences and health at various later ages. One common breakdown includes:
- Young-old: Ages 65–74
- Middle-old: Ages 75–84
- Oldest-old: Age 85 and older
This shows that a 63-year-old is often still considered in a pre-senior or pre-retirement life stage by many metrics, even as they approach the official thresholds for many programs.
Healthy Aging at 63 and Beyond
Regardless of the label, a person's 60s are a pivotal decade for maintaining health and quality of life. Proactive measures can help ensure that these years are rewarding and full of activity.
Lifestyle Choices for Healthy Living
- Nutrition: As metabolism slows, it's crucial to focus on nutrient-dense foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps maintain energy and prevent chronic disease. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excess salt.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, bone density, and flexibility. This can include a mix of cardio, strength training, and balance exercises. For those less active, starting slowly and building up is key. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
- Mental Engagement: Keeping the mind active can help improve memory and cognitive function. Hobbies like reading, learning new skills, or playing games are excellent ways to stay mentally sharp and engaged.
The Importance of Social Connection
Remaining socially active is a significant factor in overall well-being. People who participate in social and leisure activities tend to have a lower risk of certain health problems and report higher levels of happiness. This can involve volunteering, joining clubs, or simply spending quality time with family and friends.
Comparing Different Age Labels
To provide a clear overview, here is a comparison of the different ways a person of a certain age can be categorized:
| Age Range | Formal Term (Noun) | Generational Category | Common Label | Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60–69 | Sexagenarian | Baby Boomer (typically) | Older Adult, Senior | Formal, Cultural, Social |
| 62+ | Not applicable | Baby Boomer | Retiree (early) | Social Security |
| 65+ | Young-old (gerontology) | Baby Boomer | Retiree, Senior Citizen | Benefits, Medicare |
Conclusion: More Than a Label
So, what are 63 year olds called? Formally, they are sexagenarians. Culturally, they are typically Baby Boomers. Yet, the most significant identifier is not a label at all, but the individual and their unique experience. Entering one's sixties represents a time of change, opportunity, and new challenges. By focusing on holistic healthy aging strategies, from diet and exercise to mental and social engagement, this decade can be one of the most fulfilling periods of a person's life.
