I met with a client last week—a wonderful woman in her early 70s from Round Rock. As we finished reviewing her estate plan, she said something that caught me by surprise: “You know, I never expected to be this happy at my age. Everyone talks about ‘the golden years’ like they’re being sarcastic, but I’m having the time of my life.”
Her comment stayed with me because it perfectly illustrates what research has been telling us for years—happiness typically increases as we age. Yet so many of us approach our later years with dread rather than anticipation.
Today, I want to share some encouraging truths about aging that I’ve learned both from research and from working with hundreds of Central Texas seniors over the years. I’ll also explain how proper estate planning supports this journey toward a joyful, purposeful second half of life.
The Happiness Curve: Why Life Gets Better After 50
Here’s something that might surprise you: According to comprehensive research from AARP and National Geographic called The Second Half of Life Study, people report higher levels of happiness in their 70s and 80s than at any previous point in their lives.
Think about that for a moment. Not in their 20s or 30s—in their 70s and 80s.
I see this phenomenon play out regularly in my Cedar Park office. Clients in their later years often approach life with a refreshing clarity about what truly matters. They’ve developed what psychologists call “emotional intelligence“—the ability to regulate emotions, appreciate the present moment, and focus on meaningful relationships.
So what’s their secret? And more importantly, how can you prepare to experience this same satisfaction in your later years?
Why Our Priorities Change (For the Better) As We Age
I’ve noticed that my older clients care less about impressing others and more about authentic connections. Research confirms this shift—as we age, we naturally prioritize emotionally meaningful goals over achievement-oriented ones.
Consider these changes that typically occur:
- – Relationships deepen: Superficial connections fall away while deep friendships and family bonds grow stronger.
- – Time becomes precious: There’s less tolerance for activities that don’t bring joy or purpose.
- – Material pursuits diminish: The focus shifts from accumulating things to creating experiences and memories.
- – Daily pleasures are savored: Simple joys—watching the sunset, enjoying a meal with loved ones, reading a good book—become sources of profound satisfaction.
I remember a couple from Georgetown who spent decades building a successful business. When they finally sold it at age 65, they expected to miss the status and excitement. Instead, they found themselves happier than ever, focusing on grandchildren, community service, and long-postponed hobbies.
“We should have done this years ago,” the husband told me. “We had no idea how exhausting it was to constantly chase the next thing.”
Health Concerns Are Real—But Our Perspective Changes
Let’s be realistic—aging does bring health challenges. I won’t sugarcoat that. Many of my clients face chronic conditions, mobility issues, or concerns about cognitive decline.
However, what’s fascinating is how perception often shifts. The Second Half of Life Study found that even as physical health typically declines with age, satisfaction with health tends to increase. This seemingly paradoxical finding makes sense when you consider the psychological growth that occurs.
Older adults often:
- – Focus more on what they can do rather than what they can’t
- – Compare themselves to peers rather than to their younger selves
- – Develop greater acceptance of limitations
- – Take pride in their resilience and ability to adapt
I’ve seen this mindset in action with a client from Leander who lives with Parkinson’s disease. “Of course I wish I didn’t have this condition,” he told me. “But it’s taught me patience and gratitude in ways I never would have learned otherwise. I actually feel more spiritually healthy now than when my body was perfect but my mind was always racing to the next worry.”
The Four Pillars of a Happy Second Half of Life
Through my years of working with seniors in Central Texas, I’ve identified four key elements that consistently contribute to happiness in later life:
1. Purpose and Meaning
Having a reason to get up each morning—whether it’s volunteering, pursuing artistic interests, mentoring younger people, or simply being present for family—provides essential structure and satisfaction.
2. Strong Social Connections
Regular, meaningful interaction with others prevents isolation and fosters a sense of belonging. This might be through family, friends, religious communities, or interest groups.
3. Physical and Mental Self-Care
Taking proactive steps to maintain health—from regular medical check-ups to eating well, staying physically active, and keeping the mind engaged—contributes significantly to quality of life.
4. Financial and Legal Security
Knowing that your affairs are in order, your wishes are documented, and you have plans for potential care needs provides tremendous peace of mind.
Did that last one catch your attention? While we often focus on the emotional and physical aspects of aging well, having your legal and financial house in order is equally important for peace of mind.
Why Estate Planning Is Actually Self-Care
Many people view estate planning as something you do for others—and there’s truth to that. But I’ve found that creating a comprehensive estate plan is actually one of the most powerful forms of self-care for seniors.
Here’s why:
- – It reduces anxiety about the future: When you know you’ve addressed potential scenarios—from long-term care needs to asset distribution—you spend less time worrying about “what ifs.”
- – It preserves autonomy: Proper planning ensures your wishes are followed, even if you can’t speak for yourself.
- – It prevents family conflict: Clear instructions eliminate guesswork for loved ones, reducing the potential for disagreements during emotional times.
- – It protects what you’ve built: The right legal structures safeguard your assets from unnecessary taxation, creditors, or mismanagement.
I remember a widow from Pflugerville who came to my office highly anxious about her future. After we created her estate plan—complete with advance directives, a power of attorney, and a trust to protect her assets—she told me, “I feel like I can breathe again. I’ve been carrying this worry for years.”
That’s the power of proper planning—it creates space for joy by removing unnecessary worry.
Essential Planning Documents for Your Second Half of Life
Based on my experience working with Central Texas seniors, I recommend focusing on five essential documents:
1. Will or Trust
Beyond simply distributing assets, these documents allow you to leave a legacy that reflects your values and relationships. For many clients, this means making provisions for grandchildren’s education, supporting favorite charities, or preserving family heirlooms.
2. Durable Power of Attorney
This document names someone you trust to handle financial and legal matters if you become unable to do so. It’s crucial for maintaining control over your affairs even during incapacity.
3. Medical Power of Attorney
Similar to a financial power of attorney, this designates someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you cannot. Choosing the right person—someone who understands your values and will advocate for your wishes—is essential.
4. Advance Directive / Living Will
This specifies your preferences for end-of-life care, sparing your loved ones the burden of making difficult decisions without guidance.
5. HIPAA Authorization
This allows designated individuals to access your medical information—crucial for loved ones who may need to coordinate your care.
Wait—did you notice something important there? Four of these five documents primarily benefit you during your lifetime, not after you’re gone. That’s why I consider estate planning an essential form of self-care.
Evolving Priorities Call for Evolving Plans
One thing I’ve learned from working with clients throughout Central Texas is that priorities shift as we move through different stages of life. Your estate plan should evolve accordingly.
In your 50s, you might focus on:
- – Supporting adult children
- – Preparing for retirement
By your 60s and 70s, priorities often shift to:
- – Maintaining independence
- – Protecting assets from long-term care costs
- – Creating a meaningful legacy
And in your 80s and beyond, concerns often center on:
- – Quality of life and dignity
- – Simplifying financial affairs
- – Ensuring your wishes are honored
That’s why I recommend reviewing your estate plan every 3-5 years, or whenever you experience a significant life change.
Finding Purpose in Your Second Half of Life
Beyond the legal documents, finding purpose is perhaps the most crucial element of a happy second half of life. For many of my clients, purpose comes from:
- – Mentoring others: Sharing wisdom and experience with younger generations
- – Volunteering: Contributing time and talent to causes they care about
- – Creating: Pursuing artistic expressions they never had time for before
- – Learning: Taking classes, reading widely, and staying intellectually engaged
- – Strengthening relationships: Deepening connections with family and friends
Purpose looks different for everyone, but the common thread is engagement with something beyond yourself.
Embracing Your Best Years
The research is clear, and my experience confirms it: for many people, the second half of life brings unexpected joy, purpose, and satisfaction. With thoughtful planning and the right mindset, these truly can be your golden years.
The key is preparation—emotional, physical, and legal. By addressing your estate planning needs now, you create the foundation for confidence and peace of mind that allows you to fully embrace everything this stage of life has to offer.
After all, isn’t that what we all want? Not just to grow older, but to grow happier, wiser, and more content as we do.