Britons in their later years are relishing their 70s, with many planning to pursue new hobbies and interests rather than putting their feet up and relaxing.
According to Royal Voluntary Service research, released to launch GrandFest 2016, the one-day festival that celebrates older people and the skills they possess, almost half of 60-69 year olds (41 per cent) said they didn’t believe older age began for another 15 years until they reached 85 years old, with 11 per cent saying older age would be when they hit 90.
Not seeing themselves as “old”, 66 per cent had plans to learn or do something new in their 70th decade with travelling to new countries (38 per cent), getting fit (28 per cent), volunteering (18 per cent) and learning a practical skill (nine per cent) among the most popular.
Alison Steadman, actress said: “When I was 17 I remember thinking 35 was very old! How we change, grow and learn.
“Life is for living and to be 70 now seems exciting to me. I’ve grown in confidence over the years and learned that every day is precious.
“Every day brings something new and challenging. Go for it!”
Despite the negative image of ageing often portrayed, research by the charity identified how many Brits in their sixties were looking forward to hitting the big seven zero.
A third (32 per cent) said they were intend to embrace their impending 70s with 18 per cent saying they feel proud to be in their seventies.
Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics show that people aged 65-79 years old enjoy the highest satisfaction levels – far higher than those in their 40s and 50s.
Inspirational older people are paving the way, nearly half (45 per cent) said Helen Mirren (pictured) is the most inspirational celebrity to turn 70 in 2015 while a quarter cited former BBC correspondent, Kate Adie.
And it seems those soon to be 70s are in good company as a host of household names known for their acting, writing, cooking, and dancing skills are celebrating their seventieth birthday in 2016.
The illustrious 70@70 roll call includes singing great Dolly Parton, actresses Joanna Lumley, Helen Mirren and Alison Steadman, chef, Brian Turner, and politician Ken Livingstone.
David McCullough, Chief Executive of Royal Voluntary Service said: “Our roll call of 70 year olds will hopefully make people reassess their view of old age.
“Most of the people on our list are still working and are at the top of their profession.
“They are proof that later life is to be celebrated and that’s why we wanted to launch GrandFest, to give people an opportunity to learn from the country’s seasoned professionals, the Original Makers who have perfected their skills over a lifetime.”
GrandFest, taking place in London on June 5, is a one day festival created for the older generation to share craft skills such as knitting, crochet, wood turning and bread making through a series of master classes.
Celebrities who are 70
Eric Clapton – Singer, musician
Joël Robuchon – Chef
Martyn Lewis – Broadcast journalist
Bianca Jagger – Former actress, human and social rights activist
Deidre Sanders – Agony aunt
Ken Livingstone – Politician, former Mayor of London
Labi Siffre – Singer (So Strong)
Carly Simon – Singer, musician
Debbie Harry (Blondie) – Singer
John Motson – Sports commentator
Helen Mirren – Actress
Steve Martin – Actor
Dr Chris Steele – TV Doctor (This Morning)
Van Morrison – Singer, musician
Kate Adie – BBC journalist, Radio 4 presenter
Bryan Ferry – Singer, musician
Don Mclean – Singer
Lesley Joseph – Actress
John Lithgow – Actor
Henry Winkler – Actor (Happy Days)
Neil Young – Singer
Goldie Hawn – Actress
Bette Midler – Actress, singer
