Much is said about the freedoms and opportunities that come with turning sixty. And rightly so. It can be a time of reflection, renewed purpose and the opening of new doors. But that is only part of the story. For many, turning sixty also brings a series of challenges that are not always acknowledged or spoken about openly. These struggles are often emotional, practical or financial, and they deserve just as much attention as the more celebratory side of later life. 

One of the most immediate challenges is identity. For those who have worked for decades, the prospect of retirement can feel unsettling. Even if work continues, changes in roles or responsibilities can cause a shift in how people see themselves. The loss of a professional identity, or even just a daily routine, can lead to feelings of uncertainty or invisibility. Ageist attitudes in society do not help. Too often, older people are seen through a narrow lens of decline or dependence, rather than as individuals with experience and ongoing contributions to make. 

There are also financial concerns. While some reach sixty with secure pensions or mortgage-free homes, many do not. A growing number of people face later life with financial pressures that are hard to resolve quickly. Rising living costs, limited savings, and insecure or part-time work all add to the strain. The reality is that for many, there is no clear path to a comfortable retirement. Navigating the benefits system can be confusing, and support is not always easy to access. 

Health is another area where struggles can emerge. Even for those in good shape, there is often a growing awareness of vulnerability. Chronic conditions may start to develop or become more noticeable. Access to healthcare can vary, and long waiting times, especially in some parts of the country, make it harder to get timely support. Mental health, too, is a concern. Loneliness and depression are not uncommon, particularly for those who live alone or have experienced recent bereavement or divorce. 

Relationships may shift too. Children might have left home, or might still be living at home longer than expected. Partners may retire at different times, leading to unexpected tensions or changes in routine. And for those without a close network of friends or family, the risk of social isolation increases. Digital exclusion can worsen this. In an age where so much communication and service provision has moved online, not being confident with technology can lead to further disconnection. 

But none of these difficulties are insurmountable. Part of the answer lies in recognising that these challenges are real and legitimate. Talking about them helps. Community groups, peer networks and online forums can offer a sense of solidarity and shared experience. Age UK and other organisations offer practical guidance and emotional support, and can help people find their way through financial or legal concerns. 

There is also a role for government and employers to play. Policies that support older workers, that provide accessible training and that challenge ageism in recruitment are key. Local councils can ensure services are inclusive and that information is available in a range of formats. Health providers can do more to integrate care for older adults, especially when it comes to mental health and preventative services. 

Individually, small steps can help regain a sense of control. Staying active in whatever way is manageable, seeking support rather than struggling in silence, and being open to new possibilities all matter. It is not about pretending everything is fine, but about acknowledging difficulty while remaining open to change. 

Turning sixty is a significant milestone, but it is not a uniform experience. For some, it brings a sense of arrival. For others, it can feel like the start of a more uncertain road. At TurningSixty, we believe in telling the whole story. Life after sixty can be fulfilling and rich, but it can also be hard. Both are true. And both deserve to be met with honesty, compassion and a belief in what is still possible. 

Sources

Later Life in the United Kingdom Age UK
Ageism in the UK workplace Centre for Ageing Better
Access to care for older adults NHS England