Wellbeing > Age Specific Information > Female > 65 - 80 years old

Female 65 - 80 years old

This page provides general information about health and wellness for females ages 65 - 80 years old, however individual experiences may vary.

Our metabolism tends to slow down during our 60’s and 70’s.  If we also decrease our physical activity levels, we may struggle to avoid putting on weight. Obesity places our aging joints and tendons under more strain, which may cause or worsen various overuse conditions. 

It is hard work, but we can achieve weight loss during this phase of life by limiting our intake of alcohol and sugary processed foods, and by engaging in regular physical activity.

While our hormone levels begin to stabilise after menopause, bone density loss continues throughout these years, and bone frailty can start to become a problem. Taking dietary supplements such as vitamin D and calcium phosphate - combined with regular weight-bearing exercise - has shown to minimise bone loss.

The effects of aging cause our tendons to gradually soften, our muscles to become weaker, and our joints to become stiffer and sometimes painful. Exercise should therefore be aimed at maintaining strength, while minimising joint aggravation. It should be increased gradually to avoid causing tendon overuse problems. 

Keeping physically active can be complicated by the symptoms of menopause, which may include  fatigue, depression, incontinence and hot flushes. 

During our 50’s and 60’s our exercise plans must also be aimed at minimising the loss of bone density, caused by the hormone changes of menopause. We should participate in regular moderate impact and resistance exercise.

As we age, changes occur in the chemistry of the brain, and less of the chemicals that help us feel happy are released. We may notice that we feel more grumpy, short tempered and depressed – or those around us may notice it!  The physical changes which we are going through create additional challenges for our mental wellbeing – we have more aches and pains, we might not feel as strong or as fast as we used to.  

It is important at this age to maintain or find new interests, particularly those that involve socialising, physical activity, and challenge for our brains. 

If you have questions or concerns about your mental or emotional health, speak to your doctor.

The years from 65 onwards are typically the ones in which retirement planning becomes a significant priority. Retirement is more commonly a financially driven choice than a health driven one. Nevertheless, it is important to consider the physical nature of the work we do at this age and stage. If we are having frequent, recurring, work-related injuries and are performing a physically demanding job, this may be a good time to start looking for less physical alternatives; such as retraining in a managerial role, or stepping into a training or supervisory capacity.