I guess that saying (getting old ain't for sissies)is emblematic of what I mean. Why say that? If you think you're old, you'll act it. This is apart from slowing down or needing more rest when exercising like most of us do. What exactly is it, about getting old that's not for sissies? From my perspective, I'm more self aware, I have a lot more money, and I have a job I love. I don't let negative people bring me down and I've divested myself from all relatives who are dysfunctional. If an emergency or something bad happens, I can handle it a lot better now than I could when I was 20, 30, or even 40. My life has not been perfect, but maybe because most of the bad stuff happened when I was young, I have a different view.
I think people say this as it applies to health problems. If you are active, a lot of those things just aren't a problem. Of course, cycling, etc. does not totally protect you from disease, but it sure helps you survive illness mentally. What I do makes me tough. Sure, I may be more cautious, but my frame of mind is different than a lot of others I know.