Experts Urge Embracing Age, Not Fearing It

Clinical psychologist says age anxiety spans all generations, but a positive mindset can help.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:47am

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According to clinical psychologist Michelle Moore with LSU Health New Orleans, many people hesitate to share their age due to fears of judgment, missed milestones, or unmet expectations. However, Moore advises flipping the script and seeing age as proof of time left to grow, try new things, and complete unfinished goals. She notes that age stigma is evolving as people live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

Why it matters

This story highlights the psychological barriers many people face around openly discussing their age, which can stem from societal pressures and personal insecurities. Addressing these age-related anxieties is important for promoting self-acceptance and allowing people to embrace the positive aspects of growing older.

The details

Moore explains that for some, admitting their age can feel like acknowledging missed life goals or unmet expectations, even if those timelines were self-imposed. Others worry about being judged or pigeonholed based on assumptions about what they should or shouldn't be doing at a certain age. This age anxiety spans all generations, with younger people sometimes hesitating to share their age due to concerns about being seen as immature or inexperienced.

  • The article was published on January 29, 2026.

The players

Michelle Moore

A clinical psychologist with LSU Health New Orleans who specializes in age-related anxieties.

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What they’re saying

“For some people, admitting their age feels like admitting they aren't where they thought they'd be in life.”

— Michelle Moore, Clinical Psychologist (audacy.com)

“It's not always about what you've done or haven't done. It's often about realizing how much time you may have left.”

— Michelle Moore, Clinical Psychologist (audacy.com)

The takeaway

By embracing a positive mindset about aging and seeing age as proof of the time left to grow, try new things, and complete unfinished goals, people can overcome the psychological barriers and stigmas around openly discussing their age.