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The notion of 70 as an age marker for "old age" has roots both in biology and in cultural perceptions. While modern medicine and improved living conditions have extended life expectancy, our bodies still follow an ancient blueprint. We are, in essence, built to last around 50 years, a figure derived from a time when our ancestors faced constant threats from predators, disease, and the elements.

The Biological Clock

Humans are inherently designed with a finite lifespan. Evolution crafted us to survive just long enough to reproduce and ensure the continuation of the species. Historically, reaching 50 was a significant achievement. Beyond this point, the wear and tear on our bodies—cellular degradation, genetic mutations, and environmental damage—becomes evident. Thus, by 70, many of the systems that kept us vibrant begin to falter. This is not to say that we are doomed at 70, but rather that the maintenance required to keep our bodies functional increases significantly.

Lifestyle Factors

Diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices play crucial roles in how we age. If we neglect these aspects, the cumulative damage can lead to a dependence on medications to maintain basic health. Consuming nutrient-poor food, overeating, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and neglecting physical activity hasten the decline. Proper footwear and attention to body mechanics also contribute significantly to longevity and quality of life. Without these precautions, the body's resilience diminishes, necessitating pharmaceutical interventions to manage conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis.

Life as a Process

Life is an intricate process: birth, peak, and eventual decline. This journey is marked by milestones, each representing a phase of development and decay. As we approach 70, we often find ourselves more aware of our mortality, cognizant of the limited time remaining compared to the years we have lived. This realization can be both sobering and disheartening. The inevitability of decline, barring extraordinary health or misfortune, is a stark reminder of our biological constraints.

The Psychological Impact

Reaching 70 often brings a shift in perspective. There's a heightened awareness of the finite nature of life. For many, this age heralds a time of reflection, of taking stock of achievements and regrets. The understanding that there is less time ahead than behind can be daunting. Yet, it can also be liberating, prompting individuals to prioritize meaningful experiences and relationships.

The Final Chapter

As we advance into our later years, particularly into our 90s, fatigue with the ongoing struggle to maintain health is not uncommon. The desire for rest, for an end to the incessant battle against the body's deterioration, is understandable. When someone in their 90s expresses a readiness for life to conclude, it is often a reflection of having endured and experienced enough.

In summary, the age of 70 is widely considered the onset of old age due to a combination of biological predispositions and lifestyle factors. It signifies a period where the body requires more care and attention to maintain function, and where the reality of limited remaining time becomes more pronounced. While it can be a challenging time, it is also an opportunity to cherish and make the most of the life that remains.