A new survey has revealed that Brits reach their peak health and happiness at the age of 47. The findings suggest that individuals in their late 40s feel fitter, more confident, and happier than at any other stage of life.
Survey Results
The survey, commissioned by TePe, quizzed 2,000 Brits about when they believe health and happiness peak in life. Nearly half (47 per cent) of those over 40 stated that life becomes healthier in later life because they finally understand their bodies better. Additionally, 32 per cent said they are more likely to buy healthier foods, while 28 per cent admitted to partying and drinking far less than in their 20s and 30s.
More than a quarter (26 per cent) credited their children or grandchildren for keeping them active, and 35 per cent said they care less about pleasing others and focus more on their own wellbeing.
Expert Insight
Miranda Pascucci, Head of Clinical Education and Dental Therapist at TePe, explained that this shift comes from focusing on internal health over appearance. 'As people get older, many begin to realise that health isn't just about what's visible,' she said. 'It's about how you feel and how well your body functions.'
Social Media Reactions
The news resonates with many Brits who have taken to social media to express their happiness in their 40s. TikToker @tammy.stylist shared: '40s hits you massively. Everyone sees it as such a bad thing, but I feel like my 40s has been so much better than my 30s. I know who I am. I've got boundaries in place. I've got rid of all the bad apples.'
@self_care_with_emma added: 'I think our 40s are maybe our best years. We start to feel comfortable in our own skins, we don't stress about the little things that used to worry us sick and we don't care what other people think.'
And @rachaelpotash said: '40 wasn't the end of anything – it was the beginning of EVERYTHING.'
Related Findings
The survey comes shortly after another study of over 2,000 Brits found that people are considered old from the age of 69. Previous studies suggested old age begins at 62, but the new findings indicate shifting attitudes. Donna Bartoli, Wellness Expert & Health Coach, commented: 'While we may be pushing the idea of 'old' further into the future, the data suggests many of us are still putting off the habits that help us age well. And if 69 really is the new 'old', then the time to look after our future health isn't later, it's now.'
Generosity and Happiness
Research from 2017, published in Nature Communications, found that being generous really does make people happier. An international team of experts studied 50 volunteers in Switzerland who were given money to spend. Those who committed to spending on others behaved more generously and reported greater increases in happiness. Brain scans showed that generosity activates neurons in the ventral striatum, an area associated with happiness.
