The Truth About Adulthood After 40, 45, 50…

Obj is officially 89, but says some of his classmates are about 10 years older…

There is an important lesson in the story of one leader I love so much and continuously held in high esteem in the political arena. He is former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR. At an officially stated age of 89, he remains remarkably active and productive. There have also been reports that he has lived with diabetes for more than four decades that he was diagnosed of it when he was about 50 years. Which of course, he could have had it earlier. Whatever the details of his personal medical history, the broader lesson is worth reflecting on: a health condition does not necessarily mean the end of life.

After 40, and especially after 50, many of us begin to manage one health challenge or another. Diabetes, hypertension, prostate enlargement, arthritis, vision problems, high cholesterol, hormonal changes and other conditions become increasingly common. Unfortunately, many people keep their struggles to themselves until the situation becomes serious.

This is why we need to talk more openly and responsibly about our health. Knowing what is happening to our bodies, seeking medical attention early and allowing trusted people to support us can make a significant difference. Silence, fear, denial and ignorance can sometimes turn a manageable condition into a serious problem.

Many people have lived with chronic conditions for decades and continued to work, raise families and contribute meaningfully to society well into their 70s, 80s and beyond. Sometimes, the condition you are afraid of today is something another person has been managing successfully for 10, 20, 30 or even 40 years. Knowing this can replace fear with hope.

We must, however, distinguish responsible health conversations from self-diagnosis or self-medication. Personal experiences can encourage us, but they should never replace professional medical advice. If something changes in your health, seek appropriate medical attention, learn about your condition and follow qualified medical guidance.

As we grow older, let us also learn to check on one another. Do not wait until someone collapses before asking how they are doing. A simple phone call, conversation or timely encouragement can sometimes make a difference.

Ageing is inevitable, but it should not be approached with hopelessness. Forty is not the end. Fifty is not the end. Sixty is not the end. Even a chronic diagnosis is not automatically the end.

God is the giver of life and He is all-knowing. We cannot determine the length of anyone’s life, but faith should not prevent us from using the knowledge, medical care and opportunities available to protect our health. While death is inevitable, some complications and premature deaths may be preventable through awareness, early detection, appropriate treatment and responsible choices.

Let us talk, learn and check on one another. Let us share our experiences responsibly and never allow ignorance, fear or silence to take away the hope that knowledge can provide. I believe that God gives life and takes it at His will; ultimately, we will all die. However, some deaths and complications may be preventable. Seeking knowledge, speaking openly about our health challenges and making use of our trusted social networks can provide valuable information, timely support and access to help when we need it most.

Like I deposited few years ago, “Growing older is a privilege; growing older wisely is a responsibility.”-Mike O. Enahoro, October 28, 2023