Getting Real About Getting Older

In January 2023 we commissioned YouGov to ask some key questions about how people in their mid-life – those aged between 40 and 60 – in the UK are preparing for later life (70+).

Earlier this year we did some research with YouGov which found that 54% of UK adults between 40 and 60 think that later life is a time to be afraid of, and only 38% thought it was a time to look forward to. We also found that while 86% think that it is important to prepare for later life, 24% haven’t done so.

So, we wanted to help people get ready for later life so that they will flourish when they get there. And the big thing is to recognise that it’s never too early to start preparing!

Our research asked about financial, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual preparation. While more people were likely to have made some financial plans for retirement (39%), and 30% had made changes to diet and exercise habits, only 2% had talked with a counsellor or mentor about getting older, and only 7% had made a bucket list. So, it seems that while some practical preparations are being done most people aren’t thinking about how to look after their emotional, mental, and spiritual health as they get older.

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 4645 adults, of which 1566 were aged 40-60. Fieldwork was undertaken between 13th-17th January 2023. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+) Full results can be found here.

Alan and Eric on bereavement and grief.

Coping with Grief and Loss

Written within a Christian context, this booklet looks at the impact of grief and loss and explores key stepping stones to help the reader navigate the tricky waters of bereavement.