What age range defines older adulthood?

The age range that defines older adulthood is typically marked from 65 years to death. This delineation aligns with various health and social policies, including retirement age and eligibility for certain benefits, such as Medicare in the United States. The age of 65 is significant as it is often associated with the onset of retirement for many individuals, transitioning them into a phase of life characterized by increased health considerations, potential lifestyle changes, and different social roles.

The choices that depict a narrower age range, such as 60 to 70 years, do not encompass the full spectrum of older adulthood, which extends beyond just the beginning of retirement to include the latter stages of life. Similarly, the options that start at higher ages or focus solely on ranges such as 70 to 80 years or 75 years and older fail to capture the full definition and acknowledge that older adulthood can begin earlier, at 65. This range allows for a comprehensive understanding of the demographic of older adults, recognizing the diversity of experiences and health needs that can exist from the age of 65 onward.