Young Horse .. Old Rider

When I was a very young man I owned and rode a great deal. Now that I have retired, I would like to get a horse, and one for my wife so that we can ride together. She has owned a horse also, but many years ago. I still ride about 2 times a year and feel comfortable, but next year I will be 70 years old. My young wife is 56.

I have studied the cost of owning a horse for a few months, and, of course, it scared me to death. But, we have about decided to go with it. My question is, to what age do you think I could still be a safe rider? I am wiry, incredibly healthy, and fit. My wife is also.

Am I being unrealistic or foolish? I would like to hear from older riders. We are looking at Quarter Horses, and western riding gear.

As long as you can physically climb into the saddle and can take care of a horse (or pay somebody to do it for you), I don't see why you can't ride. I wouldn't reccomend getting a young horse, though.

I guess I was kidding about the young horse. But I don't want an old kid's pony, either. I was thinking 8 to 12 years of age, well trained and calm.

I'm not really old so I can't give you personal advice, but it sounds like you are fit enough to ride. A fall might be bad though...

I just turned 51 so I can attest to the old farts can still ride rule I would recommend you look into a gaited horse though. Nothing wrong with a trusty QH but a gaited breed will be easier on older hips and knees. We ride Rocky/Kentucky mountain horses and have been very happy with them.
There are many wonderful gaited breeds out there, have a look see
As far as age, I was told by a wise horse women that a horse doesn't grow a brain till they are 10 so I think that would be a good age to start at. I like a nice 8-10 year old. My mare will be turning 10 this spring and you can regularly see the light bulb coming on now

My husband's aunt is in her 60s and rides all the time. I would suggest a gaited horse or a short horse like a haflinger. I know a lot of older couples getting haflingers because they are short to the ground, strong, very friendly and willing and very easy keepers which will keep your feed bill lower than other breeds.

The gaited horse idea sounds good. I will look into that aspect immediately. Thanks.

The 8+ age range sounds good depending on training and temperament. I've ridden a 16 y/o who was more hyper than most 4 y/os

Well, I'm only 54, but I don't see my riding days ending anytime soon (knock on wood). I love riding and caring for our three Paint mares, from our 14 yr old finished/seasoned, ex-penner that you can riding anywhere without having to think at all, to our 6 yr old great trail horse...just adding the miles/experience till she reaches 10 and get's that brain , to our 4 yr old green broke (project) one, good on the trail, and learning about riding alone and in the 'real' world.

My husband will be 71 this year. I'll be 45 this year. We joke that I look younger but my body's older than my hubby's. Our daughter got her first horse this last year. Hubby never owned a horse but he has bragged for years that he was a Rough Rider as a kid. He spent summers at a camp out west and rode all summer.

Our daughter's horse will be four this year. If you're able, get a horse. Make plans though. Take lessons and have a trainer help you select your horse(s). Make sure you have plans for your horse(s) if something happens to you or your young wife. Wear a helmet.

Most of all, have fun and be safe!