Formally: The Quinquagenarian
While not in everyday use, the formal term for a person in their fifties is a quinquagenarian. This designation comes from the Latin word quinquageni, meaning "fifty each." Similar to how people in their 80s are called octogenarians, the word quinquagenarian applies to anyone aged 50 through 59. Though the term may sound foreign, it is part of a standardized naming convention for decades of life that has existed for centuries. Knowing this term can be an interesting piece of trivia, but it has little bearing on the reality of this vibrant, dynamic life stage.
Why the Formal Term Isn't Widely Used
The reason "quinquagenarian" isn't a household word is likely due to its formal, somewhat academic nature. Most people refer to this age group simply as "people in their fifties" or as being in "midlife." The common language is more straightforward and less cumbersome. While terms like "centenarian" (100+) or "supercentenarian" (110+) are used to denote significant, record-breaking longevity, the term for one's 50s simply doesn't carry the same weight in popular culture. This highlights a broader trend: as people live longer, healthier lives, our conceptions of what defines a decade of life shift.
Informally: Navigating Midlife
Beyond formal terminology, those in their fifties are most often simply considered to be in midlife. This is a far more nuanced and descriptive term, as it encompasses not just chronological age but the vast array of life experiences, roles, and transitions that occur during this decade. For many, the fifties are a time of re-evaluation and adjustment, filled with both significant opportunities and new challenges. The National Institutes of Health even defines this period as "early midlife" (ages 50–59), contrasting it with "late midlife" (60–69) to recognize the distinct experiences within this broader phase.
Key aspects of midlife in your 50s
- Reflecting and re-evaluating life goals: Many people take stock of their careers, relationships, and personal achievements, often leading to significant changes in their life path.
- Becoming part of the "sandwich generation": A common experience for many is caring for both their adult children and their own aging parents simultaneously.
- Navigating career shifts: This can be a peak earning time for many, but others might face career plateaus or even involuntary career changes. Some may choose to pursue an encore career or transition toward retirement.
- Adjusting to family dynamics: The empty nest is a major life transition, changing the day-to-day rhythm of a household. Meanwhile, some may welcome grandchildren into their lives.
- Focusing on health: The fifties often mark a time when age-related health changes become more apparent, making it a crucial decade for preventative care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The psychology of being in your fifties
The psychological experience of being in your 50s can vary greatly, but it is frequently a time of significant personal growth. Individuals often gain wisdom, confidence, and a clearer sense of purpose. Research shows that emotional experiences tend to improve during this time, with individuals reporting greater control over their lives and feelings. It's a period that challenges the misconception of the "midlife crisis," instead portraying it as a vibrant phase with new opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Self-reflection and adaptation are central to navigating this period successfully, allowing people to focus on what truly brings them joy.
Comparison of Age-Related Terms
Understanding the various terms for different age decades provides useful context for the term quinquagenarian. Below is a comparison table outlining the formal and informal names for various decades of life.
| Age Range | Formal Term | Informal Description | Notable Life Events (General) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20s (20-29) | Vicenarian | Young Adulthood | Career establishment, forming new relationships |
| 30s (30-39) | Tricenarian | Early Thirties | Raising families, building career momentum |
| 40s (40-49) | Quadragenarian | Forties, Midlife | Career peak for many, increasing family responsibilities |
| 50s (50-59) | Quinquagenarian | Midlife, Fifties | Empty nest, career transitions, focus on personal growth |
| 60s (60-69) | Sexagenarian | Sixties, Retirement age | Approaching or entering retirement, new hobbies |
| 70s (70-79) | Septuagenarian | Seventies | Increased leisure time, potential health changes |
| 80s+ (80+) | Octogenarian/Nonagenarian | Elite Elderly | Increased focus on health, family, and reflection |
Common Health and Wellness Considerations in the Fifties
The fifties are a decade where proactive health management becomes especially important. While aging is a natural process, there are specific health concerns that tend to arise during this period. Being aware of these can help individuals take preventative steps to ensure healthy aging.
- Cardiovascular Health: The risk of heart disease increases significantly after age 50, particularly for women after menopause. Maintaining an active lifestyle, managing weight, and monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels are critical.
- Bone Density: For women, bone loss accelerates after menopause, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake are vital.
- Mental and Emotional Well-being: The transitions of midlife can be stressful. Staying socially connected, pursuing fulfilling activities, and managing stress are essential for mental health.
- Menopause: Women will likely experience menopause during this decade, bringing hormonal shifts that can affect everything from sleep patterns to weight distribution.
- Cancer Screening: This is often the time when screenings for colon cancer and other forms of cancer become a regular part of health checkups.
Financial Planning in Your Fifties
Financial readiness for retirement is a major focus for many in their fifties. This is often the last significant decade for saving and maximizing investments before entering the next phase of life.
- Catch-Up Contributions: The IRS allows those 50 and older to make additional "catch-up" contributions to their 401(k) and IRA plans, offering a significant opportunity to boost retirement savings.
- Debt Management: Many prioritize paying off high-interest debt, such as credit cards, and focusing on paying down their mortgage to enter retirement debt-free.
- Assessing Risk Tolerance: Investment strategies often shift during this period to a more balanced, less aggressive approach to protect assets from market volatility.
- Estate Planning: This decade is the time to finalize or update wills, beneficiary designations, and healthcare directives.
For more detailed financial guidance tailored to this age group, an authoritative source like Fidelity can offer valuable resources. You can read about their midlife financial strategies here.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Number
While the answer to "What are people in their fifties called?" is technically a quinquagenarian, this term fails to capture the richness and complexity of this life stage. The fifties are a period of significant transition, marked by personal reflection, changing family dynamics, and a renewed focus on health and finances. It is far more accurate and meaningful to refer to those in their fifties as people in early midlife—a decade filled with both challenges and unprecedented opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
By understanding the unique aspects of this decade, individuals can better navigate their midlife journey and lay a strong foundation for a healthy and secure future. The key is to embrace the changes and leverage the wisdom and experience gained over a lifetime to live with intention and purpose.
