Body image and aging: More than how we look

⏱ 2 min read, 2 min video

As we age, our bodies change, and so can the way we think and feel about them. While body image is often discussed as a concern for younger people, research shows that it continues to matter throughout adulthood and into later life. How we relate to our bodies can influence our confidence, mental well‑being, and willingness to stay socially and physically engaged.

In this 2-minute video, clinical psychologist Dr. Keisha Gobin answers common questions about body image and shares practical, evidence‑based strategies to help people develop a healthier relationship with their bodies — at any age.

View or download transcript.

Understanding body image in later life

Body image is about more than liking or disliking how we look. It includes the thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and behaviours we have about our bodies — including how our bodies function and what they allow us to do.

For many older adults, body image becomes more complex over time. Physical changes related to aging, health conditions, or mobility can affect how we see ourselves. At the same time, many people begin to value their bodies less for appearance and more for strength, capability, and independence. Both experiences can exist at once.

When body image affects self-worth

Our bodies are an important part of our identity; but problems can arise when self-worth becomes too closely tied to appearance.

This can show up in different ways, such as:

• Frequent checking or scrutinizing parts of the body (for example, pinching or staring in the mirror)
• Comparing our appearance to others
• Avoiding social activities, mirrors, or certain clothes because of how we feel about our bodies.

Shifting the focus: You are more than your body

One helpful strategy is to remind yourself that your value is made up of many parts — not just your physical appearance.

You might reflect on the roles and qualities that matter to you, such as being:

• A friend, partner, parent, or grandparent
• A colleague, volunteer, or mentor
• Someone with skills, experiences, and values shaped over a lifetime

Investing time and energy in these areas can help rebalance how much importance we place on appearance alone.

Practicing more neutral, helpful self-talk

Negative body-related thoughts are common, especially as bodies change with age. Try noticing these thoughts and gently reframing them in a more neutral and functional way.

For example:

• Instead of: "I hate my arms."
• Try: "These are arms that help me lift, reach, and carry."

This approach doesn't require forced positivity. The goal is to reduce harsh self-criticism and focus on what your body does, not just how it looks.

Will weight loss improve body image?

Many people believe that losing weight will automatically lead to feeling better about their bodies. Research shows that small amounts of weight loss may be linked to modest improvements in body satisfaction, but losing more weight does not necessarily lead to greater or lasting improvements.

What appears to matter more, and last longer, are cognitive and behavioural skills such as:

• Challenging unhelpful thoughts about appearance
• Reducing checking or avoidance behaviours
• Building appreciation for body function and capability

These strategies can support body image without making self-worth dependent on weight or appearance.

A take-home message

A healthy body image in later life doesn't mean loving every change or ignoring real challenges. It means developing a more balanced, compassionate relationship with your body, one that recognizes appearance, function, and self-worth are connected — but not the same thing.

Small shifts in thinking and behaviour can make a meaningful difference, at any age.

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