A new survey reveals that many middle-aged Americans feel significantly older than their chronological age, with the average person over 45 years old feeling a dozen years older than their actual age.

The survey, conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Motive Health, Inc., included 2,000 participants over the age of 28. The study’s findings show that more than half (55%) of those who feel older attribute this to joint pain, while 45% say it impacts their daily lives.

A staggering 85% of Americans report experiencing some form of joint pain, yet only half of these individuals recognize that increased muscle strength can reduce joint pain, the report said. Despite this, less than half (47%) feel hopeful about finding lasting relief.

The study also highlights that those who feel older than their real age often experience body pain (55%), fatigue (48%), and a general decrease in activity levels (31%).

Notably, 47% of respondents said they don’t feel their age, with Gen Xers and older generations feeling particularly out of sync. Half of Baby Boomers, 54% of the Silent Generation, and 45% of Gen Xers reported feeling older than their age. 

Baby boomers reported feeling an average of 14 years older, Silent Generation respondents felt 12 years older, while Gen Xers felt about a decade older.

Joint pain appears to accelerate the aging process for many, with 71% admitting they ignore the pain to continue their daily activities. The study also found that nearly half (47%) of Americans avoid telling others about their pain, fearing perceptions of frailty, self-centeredness or overreaction.

Joint pain has led 45% to stop activities they love, with 23% feeling they’ve let others down by missing personal or professional commitments. Knee pain alone affects about 40% of Americans, forcing many to reconsider their living arrangements, workplaces, and travel methods.

“Until they experience it, many people don’t realize the total impact joint pain can have on their lives,” Rob Morocco, president and CEO at Motive Health, Inc., said in a statement. “Losing your mobility and independence to joint pain can be frustrating and, without a doubt, make many people feel older than they are.”

He said technology can reduce joint pain, “helping many people get back to feeling and living their best.”

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