Over 50’s have unveiled their ultimate bucket list, feeling a heightened sense of « now or never » after reaching the milestone birthday. A poll of 2,000 adults found that those aged 50 and above currently have an average of seven items on their bucket lists, having already ticked off three.
For one in three, bucket lists have gained more importance since hitting the half-century mark. Over half are more aware than ever that time is precious, and are eager to makeup for time they have already lost.
The research, commissioned by Newmedica to mark National Eye Health Week (22-28 September), revealed that top bucket list goals include seeing the Northern Lights, journeying on the Orient Express, and exploring all seven continents.
Many claim to feel more adventurous now than they did in their 30s and 40s, and hope to fulfil their lifelong dream of taking a helicopter ride or swimming with dolphins.
Others are determined to adopt new skills such as learning a new language or mastering a musical instrument. Meanwhile some folks have expressed more personal ambitions and hope to reconnect with long-lost friends and family.
Reena Dave, a consultant ophthalmologist at the eye health clinic, said: « It’s inspiring to see so many people in their 50s and beyond embracing life with such energy and ambition.
« More than ever, older generations are healthier, better connected, and eager to make up for lost time by chasing experiences that once felt out of reach. »
Four in ten reckon completing their bucket list keeps them fit and well. Nevertheless, more than half are already worrying that future health troubles will scupper their plans, with aching joints, flagging energy levels and failing eyesight amongst the conditions over 50s fear could put a stop to their adventures.
Reena added: « Of course, as we age, challenges like health, mobility – and especially eyesight – can get in the way of ticking off those dream moments. »
As a result, she emphasised that it was particularly important to stay on top of appointments that will help detect potential health issues, such as popping to the optometrist to check for any changes in vision.
According to the survey, a third of respondents have already had procedures like cataract operations or laser therapy to preserve their sight and carry on crossing off their bucket list goals.
Reena Dave from Newmedica, a provider of advanced eye care for both NHS and private patients including treatments for cataracts and glaucoma, urged: « Our advice is to act upon any sight conditions promptly to continue living life to the full.
« If you require treatment, your optician will be able to discuss options with you so you can make an informed decision about the path you take. »
TOP 25 BUCKET LIST ITEMS FOR THE OVER 50S:
- Seeing the Northern Lights
- Travelling on the Orient Express
- Taking a cruise (e.g. Mediterranean, Caribbean, around the world)
- Seeing the cherry blossoms in Japan
- Reconnecting with old friends or family
- Going on safari in Africa
- Visiting the Grand Canyon
- Attending a major world sporting event (e.g. Olympics, World Cup, Wimbledon)
- Taking a cross-country road trip (e.g. Route 66 in the USA)
- Visiting Machu Picchu
- Watching a Broadway or West End show
- Living abroad for a period of time
- Visiting the Pyramids of Giza
- Staying in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives or Bora Bora
- Tracing your family tree and visiting ancestral roots
- Seeing the Taj Mahal
- Learning a new language
- Going on a hot air balloon ride
- Writing a book or memoir
- Swimming with dolphins
- Witnessing a total solar eclipse
- Visiting all seven continents
- Exploring Antarctica
- Learning to play a musical instrument
- Flying in a helicopter
