As we get older, our bodies change in subtle—and sometimes not-so-subtle—ways. We creak a little more when we get out of bed. We may move a little slower, forget names for a moment, or feel more tired by the end of the day. These shifts are often described as “just part of ageing.” But what happens when something feels off and we don’t know if it’s normal—or a sign of something more serious?

This is one of the quiet challenges many older adults face: working out if we’re sick, or just ageing.

The Grey Area of Symptoms

One of the hardest parts of ageing is that many symptoms of illness can easily be mistaken for ordinary signs of getting older. Fatigue might be chalked up to being less active. Memory slips could be dismissed as “senior moments.” Aches and pains become background noise.

But sometimes, fatigue could signal anaemia or thyroid issues. Memory changes might hint at early cognitive decline. A lingering pain might be more than just stiffness—it could be inflammation or even a sign of something more serious. The truth is, ageing doesn’t protect us from getting ill — it can just make the signs harder to spot.

We Know Our Bodies—But They Change

Most of us have spent a lifetime tuning into our bodies. We know what a cold feels like, what stress does to us, and how our energy tends to ebb and flow. But as we age, that internal map can become harder to read. What used to be a clear signal might now be a murmur. A small change might go unnoticed until it becomes big.

This uncertainty can feel unsettling. Are we overreacting? Are we underreacting? When do we call the doctor, and when do we wait it out?

Why We Might Not Speak Up

There’s also a tendency, especially among older generations, to avoid making a fuss. To “not bother” the doctor. To assume that aches and struggles are just part of getting older and should be accepted with grace. But the problem with that mindset is that it can delay diagnosis or treatment—sometimes for something that’s very manageable if caught early.

We might also fear what we’ll hear. Better not to ask, we think, than to find out something scary. But knowledge, even when it’s hard, is power. And it’s how we take care of ourselves—and allow others to care for us, too.

What Can Help

So how do we navigate this grey area?

  • Regular check-ups are crucial, even when we feel “fine”, They help establish a baseline and catch changes early.

  • Keeping a symptom journal can be surprisingly helpful. Write down how you’re feeling, what’s new, what’s getting worse or better.

  • Ask questions at appointments. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your health.

  • Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You know yourself best—even as that “self” evolves.

  • And if any of that feels difficult for you, check out our FREE checklists that could really help.

It’s Not Just You

Most importantly, know this: you’re not alone in this uncertainty. Many older adults wrestle with this invisible puzzle, unsure whether to worry or to wait. It’s okay to not always know the answer. What matters is that we stay curious, stay proactive, and allow ourselves the same care and attention we’ve likely given to others all our lives.