There is a common misconception that age is just a number, which is probably true in most cases. Having said that, we all know someone who looks younger and is healthier than they are. However, even though your years lived may not be the best indicator of happiness or health, certain behaviors are associated with age.
You will notice new habits and peculiarities you swore you would never adopt once you reach middle age. It’s almost as if after you pass a specific birthday, you become part of a new tribe, which embodies new customs and rituals that only make sense to those within the inner—and older—circle of those you have passed that particular birthday. As a result, 40 things older people do daily keep amusing the younger generations.
Using voicemail
There’s something kind of endearing about getting a long, rambling voicemail message from an older person. It’s like they’re living in a different era, where people talk on the phone for more than just a few seconds. And, of course, they expect you to listen to the entire message, even if it takes a few minutes.
In today’s world, where most young people would instead just send a text or email, it’s refreshing to get one of these voicemails. It’s a reminder that there are still some people out there who prefer the old-fashioned way of communication. So next time you get one of these messages, don’t delete it immediately – take a listen and enjoy!
Having a specific fashion of folding fitted sheets
Throughout history, debates have been over the proper way to fold a fitted sheet. Even the early cavemen left drawings on folding the sheet with all those elastics underneath. However, most young people really couldn’t give a damn about it. They’ll fold it or just shove the thing into a drawer until they need it. It really doesn’t matter to them.
There are also some old people who practice folding fitted sheets and have techniques they take pride in, which they will be more than happy to demonstrate if you show even the tiniest bit of interest in what they are doing.
Eating dinner early
Many restaurants and diners offer discounts for seniors or specials such as the “Blue Plate Special,” which allows older citizens to enjoy meals at a reduced price, provided that they are of retirement age or older.
The older you get, the more you appreciate the allure of saving money, being finished with dinner, and still having several hours of daylight left on the clock before you have to get up in the morning.
Sending “thank you” cards
You won’t be properly thanking someone unless your sentiments are expressed in a card and delivered via the postal service to their address. The younger generation may think it’s adequate to just send someone a thank you text or email, but their parents and grandparents would consider this unthinkable.
I think the best way to show them that you care is to write them a letter of interest. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but it must be written, and it must show up in their mailbox. Bonus points if it is written in cursive.
Wearing a jacket even when it’s warm outside
If you think that 70 degrees are not cold enough to warrant a jacket, you are mistaken. Older people have a different definition of cold based on their experience.
The walls of our blood vessels become less elastic as we age, and this causes our circulation to decrease, which leads to us feeling colder and colder faster. So as you get older, respect your elders and keep that thermostat up at all times to keep them warm.
Wearing coordinated pajama sets
A person who is older will never be found sleeping in an old shirt and some boxers in the middle of the night. To make sure they are appropriately dressed for bed, they make sure to wear matching pajamas with the top matching the bottoms on both sides of the body.
It is important to know that once you reach a certain age, ideally over 35, snuggling up in a pair of cozy pajamas will signal to your brain that it is time to slowly drift off to sleep.
Taking photos of other things – and avoiding selfies
There’s just something about a photo taken by an elderly person that screams, “I want to remember this moment!” Whether it’s a selfie from an unflattering angle or a picture of the people they love surrounded by the beautiful part of the world, old people just love taking photos.
And who can blame them? After all, life is full of precious moments that are worth remembering. So next time you see an old person taking a picture, make sure to give them a smile—after all, they’re just trying to capture a little bit of magic.
Hosting dinner parties
When it comes to parties, it’s often said that young people know how to have more fun. After all, what could be better than a night of dancing, drinking, and socializing with friends? However, it’s important to remember that not all parties are created equal. While young people may enjoy rowdy gatherings where anything goes, older adults often prefer a more refined atmosphere.
Dinner parties, for example, tend to be more subdued affairs where conversation and good food take precedence over alcohol and loud music. And while there’s nothing wrong with staying out late and letting loose every once in a while, it’s worth noting that nobody ever woke up after a dinner party feeling like they needed to call a lawyer. In the end, both young and old people can enjoy a good party – it just depends on what you’re looking for.
Always talking about the weather
Speaking of talking, there’s an evergreen topic. It’s the weather. There’s a time when you’re young, and you can use your common sense to determine if you should wear a jacket and a hat on a given day or if you should wear shorts and a T-shirt. You just want to understand the general sense of the weather, no details, thank you.
Nevertheless, older people need more details and prefer getting updates every hour or, depending on how severe the storm is, every few minutes. It’s not enough to be able to explain weather events better than a TV meteorologist, they want to discuss the weather with anyone willing to listen.
Sending holiday cards
It is not uncommon for people under 40 to send those picture postcards for the holidays that include a collage of snapshots of their family along with a vaguely festive greeting such as “‘Tis the Season” or “Love and Joy.”
Older people usually take it one step further, writing a letter about their recent surgeries or their grandson’s softball games, even their trip to Niagara Falls, in a single-spaced letter explaining everything that has happened to them over the past year.
Going on a cruise holiday
What’s not to love about a luxury cruise ship? Everything is tailor-made for older people! The all-you-can-eat buffets, the cheesy entertainment, the shuffleboard – it’s an older person’s paradise. And let’s not forget the rich array of things to complain about: the rooms are too cramped, the lines are too long, and the sun is too hot. What more could you ask for?
A cruise ship is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a relaxed and enjoyable vacation. And if you’re lucky enough to sail on a luxury liner, you’ll be in for an even better time. So why not treat yourself and book a cruise today? You won’t regret it!
Drinking lots of tea
It’s no secret that old people love their tea. Every morning, they can sit in front of the TV with a cup of tea. And they take a break from their knitting every afternoon to enjoy a nice cup of tea. Older people drink so much tea that it’s hard to keep up with them. If you tried to measure how much tea they drink in a day, you would need several bathtubs.
That’s why it’s not surprising that they’re up all night making trips to the bathroom. So next time you see an old person drinking tea, don’t be surprised if they have to get up in the middle of the conversation to go to the bathroom. It’s just a natural part of their daily routine.
Old people just can’t get enough of Facebook
Who says the old folks can’t keep up with the young’uns? The older ones give millennials a run for their money on social media usage. Sure, Facebook may not be as hip as TikTok or Instagram, but it’s still one of the most popular social media platforms out there – and guess who’s using it the most? That’s right, folks: it’s our favorite grannies and grandpas.
They love posting photos of their kids and grandkids, sharing links to news stories (oftentimes “news” stories), and occasionally even memes. And yes, said memes are usually just variations on the same adorable cat saying pithy things. But hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right?
So the next time you’re tempted to dismiss Facebook as a has-been social media platform, think again. The old folks are using it – and loving it – more than ever.
Ignoring the latest trends
It’s no secret that fashion trends come and go. One minute skinny jeans are all the rage, and the next minute everyone is wearing wide-leg trousers. But through all of these changes, one thing remains constant: older people just don’t care about fashion. They’re perfectly content to stick with their trusty khaki chinos, even if everyone else is wearing something different.
And yes, they’ve seen that Saturday Night Live commercial parody of “mom jeans,” but they honestly don’t care if you’re making fun of them. At the end of the day, older people just want to be comfortable, and that’s something that fashion trends will never change.
Not listening to GPS
Most older people believe that GPSes are all designed by people with no sense of direction, and such systems certainly do not know about the shortcuts each older person has learned through a lifetime of experience.
When it comes to old people driving, there is nothing that can replace their own memory, with some occasional assistance from a trusty and dog-eared copy of a paperback atlas that has become a symbol of their lives.
Playing bingo
It may seem like bingo is a sluggish pastime for anyone with extra time on their hands, but it is anything but. There can be more drama than you might expect and more twists and turns than you might think.
If you feel an old person playing bingo is experiencing more excitement than athletes when participating in a full-contact sport, do not be fooled by their somber expressions.
Checking that physical, snail-mail mailbox
There is nothing like the thrill of receiving an actual letter in the mail; it’s not just that it’s faster, but it’s also more personal. And if it’s handwritten, it’s even more special.
The process of writing a letter takes time and effort, not only in writing it but also in taking it to the post office and buying a stamp. It shows somebody cares enough about you to go beyond sending a cold, impersonal email.
Old people love the warm foot embrace of slippers
Mr. Rogers wasn’t alone in his penchant for slipping out of his shoes and into a cozy pair of house slippers every time he walked in the door. Old people love the warm foot embrace of slippers after a long day of pounding the pavement—or even just walking outside to get the paper. Those sore dogs deserve a break!
There’s even a name for that cozy feeling: “slippage.” Slippage is that sensation of ultimate relaxation when you finally take off your shoes and socks and slip into something more comfortable. And it’s not just old people who enjoy it—everyone does! Even celebrities have been known to enjoy a good pair of slippers. So next time you’re stressed, take a cue from Mr. Rogers and slip into something more comfortable. Your feet will thank you.
Having a landline phone
It is rare to find someone over 50 who has completely given up on a landline—whether it is because they do not have WiFi and cannot use the Internet or because they worry, “What if there is an emergency?”
You don’t have to explain why cell phones are more useful in an emergency or why landlines are usually abused by scammers and pushy salesmen. People would rather live without a landline than without a roof.
Getting up with the sunrise
The odd thing about growing older and having fewer responsibilities is that you are more likely to wake up early, which is an interesting paradox.
If the kids moved out long ago and the older person has been retired for years, he or she will still wake up every morning well before the sun rises, fully dressed and prepared for the day. You lazy millennials should try it!
Carrying lots of change
If you’re carrying a lot of coins in your pockets, chances are you’re not in your 20s anymore. Let’s face it, young people just don’t use cash that much anymore. They prefer debit, credit cards, or even apps like Venmo and PayPal. That means if you’ve got a wallet full of change, you’re probably carrying around a few decades’ worth of accumulated spare change.
Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. Maybe you’re a hipster who likes the satisfaction of paying for things with exact change. Or maybe you never got around to cashing in all those coins you’ve collected over the years. But for the most part, if you’ve got a lot of coins jingling around in your pocket, it’s a pretty good indication that you’re not exactly a spring chicken anymore.
Wearing high-rise pants is back in fashion – but for older people, it’s a staple
There’s an old saying that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. It turns out that might also be true when it comes to fashion. Many seniors can be found sporting their pants well above their waists in a style that would make even the most fashion-forward teenager cringe.
While some people attribute this trend to the fact that older adults lose muscle mass as they age, it could also be simply because their torsos are shrinking, and their waists are now closer to their nipples than they used to be. Whatever the reason, it’s safe to say this is one fashion trend that’s best left in the past.
It’s official: You’re old.
Sorry, there’s just no getting around it. But don’t despair—being old has its perks. For example, you can now join AARP and get all sorts of discounts on things like hotels, car rentals, and insurance. You can also finally start collecting social security benefits. And best of all, you can now appreciate the timeless appeal of Angela Lansbury.
Whether you’re watching her solve crimes on Murder She Wrote or singing her heart out in Beauty and the Beast, there’s just something about Lansbury that is strangely comforting—like a warm blanket on a cold winter’s day. So go ahead and embrace your inner old person. It’s not so bad, really.
Watching old movies
It’s no secret that people tend to get set in their ways as they get older. They like what they like and are not interested in trying something new. That’s why you’ll never see an elderly person watching the latest superhero blockbuster at the movie theater. They would much rather watch a classic film in black and white starring Humphrey Bogart or Clark Gable.
These movies have stood the test of time, and they continue to wow audiences of all ages. So next time you’re looking for something to watch with your grandparents, skip the latest blockbuster and pop in an oldies but goodies instead. They’re sure to appreciate it!
Let’s face it: naps are awesome
They’re the perfect way to rejuvenate yourself after a long day or to get a little extra energy to power through the afternoon slump. And while everyone can benefit from a good nap, it’s no secret that old people are the real masters of the art. For them, taking a nap isn’t an occasional guilty pleasure; it’s like a job they’ve been trained for their whole lives. Old people have a knack for taking naps at exactly the right time- usually around 2 pm when energy levels start to wane.
But unlike younger people who might only take a nap if they’re feeling tired, old folks will take one just because it’s nap time. That’s commitment! So next time you see an old person taking a nap, don’t be jealous- be inspired. After all, they’re just doing what comes naturally to them. And who knows? With enough practice, you might just be able to master the art of the perfect nap too.
Talking about the good old days
Old people love to talk about their ideal childhood, where they ran free and unsupervised and took risks without helicopter parents stopping them.
And they always ALWAYS drank water from the hose. “Drinking from the hose” has become a symbol of an idyllic childhood, something kids today won’t experience. (We’re not sure why that’s a bad thing.)
Wearing huge sunglasses
Even though some people notice a decrease in size with age, their sunglasses tend to grow in the opposite direction. While it may seem like a fashion statement, it isn’t because they’re taking their fashion cues from Bono.
But in fact, that’s one of the few practical quirks that older people have. Having bigger sunglasses is mostly practical since as our eyes age, cataracts become more common, and we become more susceptible to sun damage; we need them to block harmful UV rays from all directions.
Early-morning mall walking
When I was a kid, the mall was always crowded. It was a place to see and be seen, buy the latest fashion trends, and grab a bite to eat. But these days, the mall is a different place. It’s much quieter, for one thing. And it’s not just because the stores aren’t open yet. I often go to the mall at dawn, when it’s quiet, and there aren’t many people around. It’s a great place to get some exercise without having to worry about being hit by a car or tripping over a curb. And I’m not the only one who feels this way.
These days, more and more seniors are discovering the joys of early-morning mall walking. So if you’re looking for a place to walk that’s safe and peaceful, consider giving your local mall a try. You might just find that it’s the perfect place to start your day.
Obsessing about Jell-O
If you are young, the sight of a Jell-O mold with fruit trapped inside of it might turn your stomach. However, if you give it a few years, you will be able to view the whole thing from a new perspective.
When you’re old, you want life to be a little easier. And nothing simplifies a meal like Jell-O. Jell-O involves almost no chewing, so it’s nutrition without requiring the heavy lifting of digestion or complex flavors. Plus, gelatine is good for the joints.
Having beautiful handwriting
There is very little evidence that cursive is becoming a lost art, but there are still some old people who refuse to let it go quietly into the night. They will still use cursive whenever possible, whether it is when they are signing a check, writing a letter, or just leaving a note on a Post-It note.
It is their mission to make sure every young person they come into contact with learns about the bygone era when cursive was still taught regularly in schools. Every kid took pride in mastering the complex cursive S despite its complexity.
Staying at home on Saturday night (and feeling good about it)
Aside from the fact that older people do not feel guilty about staying in on the weekend, the fact that they manage not to go out every Saturday is also considered a victory.
You likely have danced until 2 a.m. or drank with your friends until sunrise if you have lived a full life. It’s okay to say no to that party, you’ve got an appointment with popcorn and your favorite Netflix series, but you won’t make it.
Using a wall calendar (with kittens)
They use online schedulers to keep track of their appointments, and they don’t mind using that, but for some reason, a wall calendar just seems much more official than an online scheduler.
Additionally, taking notes with a pen and paper improves your memory. Studies suggest that students retain more information when they take notes using pens and paper rather than typing them on their laptops. That’s why old people love paper calendars. You’re more likely to remember an appointment if you write it down with a pen or pencil.
Wearing sunscreen all the time
There’s nothing like getting older to help you put things in perspective. When you’re young, you worry about whether you’ve got the perfect outfit or if your makeup is just right. But as you get older, you start to realize that those things just aren’t that important.
An older person is more likely to throw on a pair of jeans and sunscreen and head out the door than they are to spend an hour getting ready for a social occasion. And they’re not afraid to tell their younger selves off for not doing the same. After all, skin cancer is no laughing matter. So, next time you’re thinking about skipping the sunscreen, just remember: an old person would never do that.
Always carrying candies around
Werther’s Originals are, without a doubt, one of the most popular candies among older people. The makers of Werther’s Originals have managed to tap into a market that other candy companies have ignored for years. And it’s not hard to see why. The candy is intensely flavorful, and the hard candy shell provides a satisfying crunch that older people crave.
What’s more, the candy is easy to eat and doesn’t make a mess. It’s no wonder that Werther’s Originals have been so popular for so long. Keith Richards may be one of the world’s most famous rock stars, but even he can’t resist the allure of Werther’s Originals. The next time you see him onstage, look in his pockets, and you’re sure to find a few of these delicious candies.
Clipping stories and coupons from newspapers
The majority of us have received at least one letter from a parent, attached to a careful cut-out story from their local newspaper, intended to inform us about some issue we have been ill-informed about.
Even though they could just share it on Facebook, they want you to take that physical clipping seriously. When a newspaper clipping shows up in your mailbox, you can’t just skip past it as you would on social media. You’re holding onto something tangible, and it’s difficult to ignore. Old people understand this.
Voting
It’s no secret that young people are more likely to stay home on election day than their older counterparts. And while there are a number of reasons for this, one thing is clear: if we want to see real change in our government, we need to get more young people to the polls.
There are many ways to achieve this, but one of the most effective is simply to make voting more accessible for young people. This means things like early voting, same-day registration, and making polling locations more convenient. It also means getting young people involved in the political process by teaching them about the issues and encouraging them to vote.
Of course, none of this will be easy. But it’s absolutely essential if we want to see real change in our government. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work!
There’s just something about a restaurant booth that’s so special
The food doesn’t taste better, and the service isn’t more expedient, but it is more cushiony. Older people will always pick a booth over a table when dining out, and unlike their younger counterparts, they’re willing to wait as long as it takes to get one.
It’s not that we enjoy being cooped up in a small space. It’s just that the cushions are much more comfortable than those hard wooden chairs. And when you’ve got a bad back, comfort is critical. So next time you’re dining out, take pity on us old folks and let us have the booth. We promise we’ll leave it in better condition than those youngsters.
Using a check to pay for groceries
For obvious reasons, this is like sending a message with a carrier pigeon. It’s slow and old-fashioned, and most people don’t bother with it anymore. But for some reason, there are still a few holdouts who insist on using checks. And as long as banks keep making checkbooks, there will always be someone who wants to use them.
Old people are the biggest offenders when it comes to using checks. They just don’t trust newfangled technologies like debit cards or Apple Pay. In their minds, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. And since checks have worked just fine for decades, they see no reason to change now.
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Doing crosswords
When you’re old and sitting on the couch with a hard copy newspaper and doing the crossword with a pencil, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as spending the day on your couch with a hard copy of the newspaper.
While you can poke fun at it now, you’ll realize when Twitter, Instagram, texting, and all the other smartphone distractions fade away that, no matter how much you enjoy them, nothing compares to the pure bliss of completing a crossword puzzle on paper on a lazy weekend morning.
Not considering themselves “old”
It’s incredible how much our perception of age can change as we get older. When you’re a child, anyone over the age of 30 seems ancient. They might as well be retired and living in a retirement home, right? But then you hit 30 yourself, and suddenly those same people don’t seem so old anymore. In fact, they might even seem young and full of life compared to some of your friends who are in their 40s or 50s.
And before you know it, those “old” people are the ones you admire because they’re still going strong while others have slowed down. It just goes to show that age is truly nothing but a number.