How Aging Transforms Self-Perception

How do you see yourself today?

Photo by Laurenz Kleinheider on Unsplash

Pop-up discussion Number 5 allows us another chance to connect and explore ways to age healthily and happily. Sharing ideas and information with others becomes increasingly important as we grow older; so, let’s take a few minutes to discuss the topic of self-perception and how it changes over time.

Experts suggest that as we age, we may become aware of physical changes, which can affect our self-esteem and body image. Consequently, I was wondering if your self-perception - the view of your characteristics, abilities, and overall self has changed over time, and if you feel differently about yourself today than when you were younger?

This isn’t something I’d thought much about, but recently I’d noticed a change in mine. Dan and I were married for over 60 years, and together we solved the problems and issues as they arose. I was pretty confident with him by my side.

After his death, and to my surprise, that confidence evaporated, and fear took over; I was afraid to do anything by myself - go places, make decisions, cross the street, or try to fix computer and household problems as they arose. My eyesight and hearing weren’t as good as they’d been, either, which added to the self-doubt. My perception of myself was at an all-time low.

I've spent the last five years rebuilding and learning about me along the way. I can do more than I thought, and my confidence increases each time I accomplish something new or figure out a problem on my own. The Internet and YouTube have proven to be beneficial resources. So, my self-perception is on the rise once again.

Our self-perception significantly impacts how well we age. Positive self-perceptions are associated with better physical and cognitive health, increased longevity, and a higher quality of life. Negative self-perceptions can lead to poorer health outcomes and a lower quality of life.

Something to think about as we take steps to age well. My question to you is this.

Do you see your self-perception changing as you get older, and if so, what might you do about it?

A few guidelines.

• Comments are friendly and supportive.

• I reserve the right to delete posts if necessary.

• I’m not a medical professional or counselor, and I don't offer advice.

Let’s get started, and welcome!