Forget OAPs! Today’s over 60s are truly a ‘Generation Why Not’ as they party the night away. They enjoy trying new experiences and spend plenty of downtime relaxing. While this might sound like the average weekend for a 30-year-old, according to a new survey by Camping in the Forest, it’s actually the average lifestyle for over 60’s as they enjoy letting loose in later life.
Over 60s Letting Loose
The findings showed that over 60s have a much younger outlook on life than their biological age. Nearly half (44%) claiming they feel between 10-15 years younger than they actually are. Fully embracing all that life has to offer, this age group is making the most of their twilight years with going on holiday (16%) and visiting a new country (12%), a number one priority for them over the next 10 years. ‘Generation Why Not’ also admitted to trying out more new experiences, such as learning to fly a plane, parascending, learning to ride a motorbike and white-water rafting.
The survey was commissioned by Camping in the Forest. They offer a collection of 15 beautiful caravan and camping sites set among the woodlands of the Forestry Commission. Together with celebrity ambassador, Janet Ellis, they try to find out how active the nation’s over 60s really are.
Generation ‘Why Not’
Janet Ellis, said: “As someone who is just 62 years young, I’m enjoying all life has to offer. Some of my favourite activities include going on walking holidays and hiking, anything where I’m outside being active.
60 really isn’t old, so it’s great to see ‘Generation Why Not’ dispelling the stereotypical views of this age group. The truth is, we’re all having more fun, being more adventurous and trying new things, which is fantastic! However, it’s important that as part of this, we remember to get outdoors in the fresh air and remain fit and active, whilst keeping our mind and our souls happy too.
“This seems especially important given that these findings showed 79% of us suffer with joint or bone pain, knee (22%), hip (10%) and neck pain (7%) all ranking top in the list of ailments experienced by the UK’s over 60’s.”
Young at Heart
Bob Hill, sites director at Camping in the Forest, added: “At 60 you know what you enjoy doing, you have less responsibility and you’re likely to have more financial freedom than you’ve had before. Being 61 myself, it’s no surprise that this survey has shown adults over 60 feel young at heart. They enjoy new experiences and socialise more than ever, which is brilliant to see.
“Nonetheless, as much as this generation are mentally active, we need to ensure this is balanced with keeping physically fit. A great way to do this is by cycling, walking or hiking in the great outdoors. We’re all about embracing nature at Camping in the Forest. We hope that we can encourage ‘Generation Why Not’ to do the same, using it to keep themselves fit and active.”
For more information, visit campingintheforest.co.uk. Follow Camping in the Forest on Twitter @Camping_CITF, Instagram @campingintheforest and by liking Camping in the Forest on Facebook.
