Myths about becoming an older person

Well, first of all, let me start by saying that I refuse to be called a senior. I don’t feel like one (most days) and I don’t think I look my age (most days). Also, let me start by saying that the following myths are ones that I believed when I was in my twenties. (So ​​get ready youngsters, your day is coming too).

1. Your hair is gray-blue or purple

Mine is brown and will stay that way for a long time. I have friends who embrace their gray but without the blue or purple tint.

2. You are an older person at 50: the age of an older person varies depending on who you ask…

Social Security says 67

Retirement groups say 50

Medicare says 65

DMV says 79

401k/IRA says 70

Denny’s says 55

Personally, I think it’s a state of mind, although a discount helps!

3. You get older when you have grandchildren

I have friends in their 30s and 40s who have become grandparents. I doubt they want to be called seniors at that age.

I have older friends who are still parents (of school age children) and not yet grandparents

4. Older adults take a lot of medications and only talk about their doctor appointments

I only take 1 pill. And I know younger people who take more medication than me.

I rarely have doctor’s appointments.

5. These are the “golden years”

I’m not sure what that is supposed to mean. If you are referring to a lot of gold for my retirement, I assure you that I have no gold and I do not plan to retire at this rate.

6. You are as young as you feel

My brain tells me I’m still 25 years old but some days my body doesn’t agree.

When I feel 25, do I look 25?

7. Your children will take care of you

We all know that happens to some people, but the reality is that most of us are on our own, planning and paying.

Many children do not even visit their parents in later years, claiming that they are too busy, etc.

8. Retirement is the best time of your life

I think that depends on how much money you have, how good your health is, and if you like gardening (yuck gardening!)

I know many who find retirement lonely and boring. I doubt very much that it will be the best moment of their lives.

9. When you are older, the opinions of others do not matter

I think if other people’s opinions bothered you when you were younger, they probably still will. Stop caring about other people’s opinions while you’re young. It is wasted energy!

10. Bird watching for seniors

Oh no… at least not all of them. I won’t be bird watching!

11. Older people sit around talking about the good times.

It really doesn’t make sense. Young people don’t believe us when we tell them that there were 4 channels on TV, no microwaves, no cell phones, and no computers.

12. Our oldies music is from the 70’s and 80’s

Sorry but that doesn’t seem like that long ago and those old guys are still on tour.

13. You have developed patience

Oh no! I think I have less. I feel like I don’t have time to deal with stupid people!

14. You have an empty nest

I have friends who had children late in life and still have school-age children living with them.

Your older children come home.

Your grandchildren come to live with you.