It's not as bad as the alternative.

I'm sorry you have absorbed negative messages about ageing, this may be cultural, in some cultures older people have special status as wise respected people.

Some things about ageing can be bad, like physical deterioration for some (it's not like that for everyone, and if you look after yourself it might not be for you), but I have also found increased self confidence, and better perspective among the positive things. I'm not really old yet, just in the middle, and I'm the happiest I've ever been.

I work with the elderly and know some pretty amazing people, I appreciate their perspective and wisdom, and zest for life.