Over-50s reveal top 25 bucket list adventures 'to make up for lost time'
A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that those aged 50 and above currently have an average of seven items on their bucket lists.
Over 50s have revealed 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 since hitting the half-century mark.
For a third, bucket lists have taken on greater importance since they hit the big 5-0, with over half more aware than ever that time is precious, and are eager to makeup for lost time. Interestingly, many said they feel more adventurous now than in their 30s and 40s.
The research, commissioned by Newmedica to mark National Eye Health Week (22-28 September), found that top bucket list goals include seeing the Northern Lights, travelling on the Orient Express, and exploring all seven continents.
Many also hope to learn a new language or fulfil the lifelong dream of taking a helicopter ride. Others are determined to master a musical instrument, float over stunning landscapes in a hot air balloon, or swim with dolphins.
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."
She added: "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. Yet more than half already worry that future health woes will scupper their plans, with aching joints, flagging energy levels and failing vision amongst the conditions older Brits fear could derail 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."
She added that it's crucial to stay on top of any appointments that might help detect potential future issues, such as popping to the optometrist to check for 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 items off their bucket lists.
Reena Dave from Newmedica, a provider of advanced eye care for both NHS and private patients including treatments for cataracts and glaucoma, advised: "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
- Witnessing the Northern Lights
- Travelling on the Orient Express
- Embarking on a cruise (e.g. Mediterranean, Caribbean, around the world)
- Experiencing the cherry blossoms in Japan
- Reconnecting with old friends or family
- Going on an African safari
- Visiting the Grand Canyon
- Attending a major global sporting event (e.g. Olympics, World Cup, Wimbledon)
- Taking a cross-country road trip (e.g. Route 66 in the USA)
- Exploring 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
- Taking a hot air balloon ride
- Penning a book or memoir
- Swimming with dolphins
- Experiencing a total solar eclipse
- Touring all seven continents
- Venturing into Antarctica
- Mastering a musical instrument
- Soaring in a helicopter