Page 16 - RVO Senior Expo August 2017

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 20, 2017 SENIOR EXPO • RIVER VALLEY & OZARK EDITION OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRATGAZETTE
Growing older may involve gray hair or wrinkling skin, but there are many positive things associated with aging.
Many people are quick to think of growing older in a negative light. Although there certainly are some side effects of aging
that one may wish to avoid, people may find that the benefits of growing older outweigh the negatives.
Seniors are a rapidly growing segment of the population. The Administration on Aging states that in the United States, people 65 and older numbered 46.2 million in 2014. With so many people living longer, it’s time to celebrate the perks of getting older rather than lament the drawbacks. Here are some great benefits to growing old.
HIGHER SELFESTEEM
The insecurities of youth give way as one ages, and older people have less negativity
and higher self-esteem. A University of Basel study of people ranging in ages from 18 to 89 found that regardless of demographic and social status, the older one gets, the higher one’s self-esteem climbs. Qualities such as self-control and altruism can contribute to happiness.
FINANCIAL PERKS
Seniors are entitled to discounts on meals, museum entry fees, movies and other entertainment if they’re willing to disclose their age. Discounts are available through an array of venues if one speaks up. Seniors can also enjoy travel perks, with slashed prices on resorts, plane tickets and more. Organizations such as AAA and AARP can help seniors secure discounts on everything from insurance to consumer goods.
Level up
Some benefits of growing older