The formal name: Sexagenarian
Historically and formally, a person in their sixties (from 60 to 69 years old) is called a sexagenarian. The term comes from the Latin word sexāgēnārius, which means “sixty each.” This Latin root is consistent across the terms for other decades of life, such as quinquagenarian (50s) and septuagenarian (70s). While it may sound formal or even archaic, its use is still valid, particularly in academic or literary contexts. For many, simply saying someone is in their 'sixties' is more common, but knowing the precise term offers a deeper understanding of linguistic traditions regarding age.
Modern gerontology: Redefining the older years
Beyond the strict definition of a sexagenarian, modern gerontology—the scientific study of old age and aging—recognizes that age is more than a number. Instead of a single, monolithic period called 'old age,' researchers and healthcare professionals categorize older adulthood into several stages to better reflect the diverse experiences and needs of aging populations. For example, the decade from 60 to 70 is often referred to as the “young-old” phase. This recognizes that many individuals in this age bracket are still physically active, mentally sharp, and socially engaged. This shift in perspective challenges outdated stereotypes of decline and focuses instead on potential and opportunity.
A changing perception: 70 is the new 60
Research indicates that people entering their 60s and 70s today are healthier and more active than previous generations. A study highlighted in Scientific American noted that adults today possess higher levels of “intrinsic capacity”—a measure of overall physical and mental functioning—than their counterparts born decades earlier. This phenomenon has led to the popular saying, “70 is the new 60.” It underscores the significant improvements in health, education, and lifestyle that have profoundly reshaped the later stages of life. The sexagenarian years are increasingly seen as a period of independence and transition, rather than one of dependency.
Milestones and transitions in the sixties
For many, the decade of the sixties is a time of major life transitions. Some common milestones include:
- Retirement: A significant portion of this decade often involves transitioning from full-time employment to retirement, which can bring profound changes to one's daily routine, social network, and sense of purpose.
- Becoming a Grandparent: Many sexagenarians become grandparents during this decade, taking on a new and rewarding role in their families.
- Caregiving for Parents: It's also common for individuals in their sixties to become more involved in caregiving for their own aging parents, managing the responsibilities that come with it.
- Exploring New Interests: With more free time, many people use this decade to travel, learn new skills, or pursue hobbies they put on hold during their working years.
The importance of active aging
To make the most of the sexagenarian years and beyond, embracing active aging is crucial. This involves more than just physical activity; it's a holistic approach that includes mental stimulation, social connection, and emotional well-being. By focusing on meaning and purpose, individuals can enhance their energy and coping skills. For more on the phases of older adulthood, see the insightful article on the topic in the Oxford Research Encyclopedias.
Comparison of age decade terms
To provide further context, here is a table comparing the formal Latin-based terms for each decade of life, as sourced from Britannica and others:
| Age Range | Formal Term | Additional Context |
|---|---|---|
| 10-19 | Denarian | The teenage years, a time of rapid change. |
| 20-29 | Vicenarian | Young adulthood, focusing on career and independence. |
| 30-39 | Tricenarian | Settling into careers and family life for many. |
| 40-49 | Quadragenarian | Often considered midlife, sometimes a period of re-evaluation. |
| 50-59 | Quinquagenarian | The approach to traditional retirement age, often a final career push. |
| 60-69 | Sexagenarian | The focus of this article, often the 'young-old' stage. |
| 70-79 | Septuagenarian | Advanced old age begins for some, with increased care needs for others. |
| 80-89 | Octogenarian | Often a period of increasing dependency. |
| 90-99 | Nonagenarian | A stage of life reached by a select few. |
| 100+ | Centenarian | A significant milestone and a testament to human longevity. |
The subjective nature of aging
Ultimately, while there are formal terms and gerontological categories for the 60-70 age range, the experience of aging is highly subjective. A person's 'functional age'—their physical and mental health—can differ significantly from their chronological age. Factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and socioeconomic status all play a role in how a person experiences their sixties. The key is to see this decade not as a fixed destination, but as a period of continued growth, adaptation, and potential, regardless of what term is used to describe it.
Conclusion: Embracing the sexagenarian years
In conclusion, the simple answer to what is the age between 60 and 70 called? is sexagenarian. However, this term only scratches the surface of what this decade represents in modern society. Advances in health and a changing cultural perspective have redefined what it means to be in one's sixties. Instead of being viewed through a lens of decline, it is now more accurately seen as a vibrant period of late-life transition, opportunity, and continued engagement. Understanding the official terminology while embracing the evolving reality is key to a positive perspective on healthy aging.
