Society has a lot to say about what you can and cannot do as a senior. While many of these rules help you stay safe, some are more restrictive than they are beneficial. Here are 18 common rules for seniors over 60 that you can ignore today.
Retirement is Due
On average, men and women decide to stop working at the ages of 62 and 65. If you’re still healthy, this doesn’t have to be the same for you. Remaining in the workforce can help you avoid loneliness and cognitive decline, and US News says it even gives you more social security benefits.
You Can’t Learn New Skills
The best time to learn new things is typically within your first ten years of life, but you’re never too old to add to your skill set. Learning a new language, improving your culinary skills, or generally pursuing new interests is a great opportunity for socialization and helps to keep your brain active.
Don’t Start a New Career
Like learning a new skill, a new career gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment and comes with opportunities to grow mentally and remain active. Sadly, this is one rule you’ll find more difficult to maneuver due to how rampant ageism is in the workforce.
It’s Too Late to Marry
You can find the love of your life anytime—even if you’re well into your late sixties! Age is never a barrier when it comes to desires of the heart, and, like thousands of senior men and women out there, you can marry or remarry if that’s what makes you happy.
You Should Be Married
Now, while marriage is an amazing concept, it isn’t what determines whether you live a fulfilled life or not. When it comes to romantic relationships in old age, you should always do what makes you feel happy, even if it means being single or just cohabiting with your partner.
Do Medical Checkups As Much As You Can
Medical checkups let you spot hidden problems and keep you in control of your health. However, CNN also reveals that excessive medical tests actually harm seniors more than they help. They expose you to unnecessary overdiagnosis that’s both expensive and invasive, especially if you’re over the age of 70.
Seniors Belong in Senior Social Circles
A circle of friends who share experiences and mutual desires can be beneficial for your socialization needs, but this doesn’t mean you only need old friends. Younger friends can introduce you to new experiences and boost your energy levels, which are great for both mental and physical stimulation.
You Have to be Debt-Free
Many people claim that you need to be debt-free by 45, as being debt-free saves you from anxiety and other stress-related problems. The catch, however, is that you can still hold on to good debt well into your ‘60s as long as you have sufficient income to cover it.
Traveling is too Risky
Travel is a great way to maintain an active lifestyle, enjoy new experiences, relieve stress, and improve overall mental well-being. Yes, long-distance travel can expose you to dangerous levels of fatigue, dehydration, and blood clotting in old age, but these issues only exist when you plan your travels poorly.
You’re Too Old to Chase Dreams
Age is never a reason to give up on your dreams. Colonel Sanders established KFC after 65, and Yuichiro Miura reached the peak of Mount Everest at the age of 80. These role models show that you can achieve success at any age as long as you believe in your dream.
Don’t Use Social Media
Seniors find it harder to navigate new trends, and some people say social media contributes to unfulfillment in old age, advising you not to use it. In reality, an NLM-published study reveals that, when guided properly, social media and the internet increase the efficiency of health management in older adults.
Public Transport Is Too Stressful
Public transport is far more advanced than it used to be. Buses and trains have become more accessible to seniors, and using them is a great way to remain physically active. Thanks to constant social interactions, you also limit your risks of isolation and avoid the stress of driving.
You’re Too Old to Volunteer
Some people consider 65 too old for voluntary work, but volunteering gives us oldies a sense of belonging, which has positive effects on our physical and psychological well-being. You can always get engaged through charities, foster grandparenting, and mentorship programs; why put an age limit on it!?
The Time for Schooling Has Passed
It’s never too late to get a first, second, or even third degree after turning 60. Millions of undergraduates in the US are above the average college age of 25, and there are free, flexible, and supportive educational programs tailored to the needs of senior learners.
Technology Is Too Complicated for You
If you still have a keen interest in the innovative world around you, try out new technology whenever you can! Yes, you may have mobility, hearing, and visual issues that limit how much you appreciate new devices, but they typically come with accessibility features, so use them!
It’s Too Late to Exercise
Never let anyone tell you you’re too old to exercise; exercising in old age delays and prevents heart-related diseases, and building muscles can aid independent mobility. As Harvard points out, “eEvenpeople 100 years old or older can build muscle strength.” Exercise is never a bad thing!
Seniors Shouldn’t Contribute to Society
At 60 years old, your opinions are typically considered too “old-fashioned” for what the new school considers “progressive.” Some even argue that seniors shouldn’t be allowed to vote! That’s outrageous; you pay taxes just as younger adults do, and, if anything, you’re wiser and deserve to be heard.
You Can’t Dress Like That!
Finally, people will tell you to wear free-flowing apparel or shirts after 60, but why should they care?! The truth is that you don’t need to listen to what anyone has to say; clothes allow you to explore new looks, and you can try out anything you want as long as it makes you comfortable and happy.
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