Under the High Patronage
of the First Lady
Cyprus Third Age
Observatory
T. +357 2531 0617
EU Transparency Registry number
876784850940-20
The Third Age
The Third Age is an important and creative period in our lives, where experience and knowledge coexist with a more peaceful and mild everyday life. Today, people live longer, work longer, and contribute to social, cultural, and economic life for many years. The elderly are a vulnerable social group and need the support and encouragement of the state and society in general. They make a significant contribution to the country's social and economic development as their knowledge and experiences are necessary to younger generations, they produce enviable voluntary work, while, at the same time, they are helping their children and grandchildren in positive and diverse ways.
The Third Age is the fastest growing age group
It is estimated that by 2050, 1/3 of the world's population will be people of the Third Age, as life expectancy currently is 80 years for women and 77 years for men. In Cyprus, the life expectancy is 84.7 for women and 80.3 for men!
When does middle age and old age start?
Human life can be divided schematically into three significant periods:
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Development
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Maturity
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Old age
When does middle age begin?
According to research conducted by the British website Love to Learn, the average age of a person starts at 55 years and not 40, as was the prevailing perception so far. In another British study, Greeks place the end of their youth at 52 years and Swedes only at 34!
Typically our entry into the Third Age begins when we turn 65 years old
"Our perceptions of aging must align with the reality of our growing longevity and not clinging to the past"
Negative perceptions of older people are unjustified and wrong because the ever-increasing life expectancy and the constant advancement of science allow more and more people to grow old and be active citizens, participate in the community, be interesting as people, and be satisfied with their lives.
The age and the limits that determine the period a person is classified have been differentiated and depend basically on her/his functionality. According to experts, the secret to entering "late" in old age is to be spiritually alert.
There is ample scientific evidence to suggest that increasing life expectancy in recent decades may be associated with a better quality of life for people who are active and satisfied with their lives. Factors proven to influence and contribute to a good quality of life, maintaining vitality, good mental state, and active participation at all levels of their lives are:
1.Technology
The opportunity to be educated and get familiar with technology and the use of computers, touch screens, smartphones, and tablets, and learning Skype and other social media helps older people open new horizons, break out of isolation and loneliness, and strengthen their mental function. At the same time, it allows them to carry out their various obligations and avoid waiting in line at public and other services.
2. Entertainment
For someone to be well, apart from the medication that may or may not follow, one needs to be in a good mood to have a good time and have fun, depending on one's preferences and choices. Music therapy, song, music, and dance improve mood and strengthen mental functions.
1.Technology
The opportunity to be educated and get familiar with technology and the use of computers, touch screens, smartphones, and tablets, and learning Skype and other social media helps older people open new horizons, break out of isolation and loneliness, and strengthen their mental functions. At the same time, it allows them to carry out their various obligations and avoid waiting in line at public and other services.
4. Exercise
Physical activity can help prevent or even treat several age-related conditions. Exercise is one of the most critical steps for the elderly to maintain their physical and mental health and quality of life. Physical activity helps reduce the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, depression, and many more.
5. Good Health and Sexuality
The more time one occupies one's mind, the more one increases the chances of keeping their mental functions in good condition because spiritual work helps good health. Brain and memory are enhanced when a person is satisfied with their love life. Good sexual life improves mood and enhances the strength and function of the brain. According to research, age is not a barrier to active sex life. "Age alone is not a sufficient prognostic indicator of a person's sexuality. In fact, many people continue to have sexual feelings during the ageing process".
