Elderly Traps

You don't stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop laughing.

-George Bernard Shaw

We’re all aging. As we age, it’s upon us how we spend our time. How we spend our time includes the actions we take as well as what we think and talk about.

I’ll assume we’re responsible people. As such, we tend to become wealthier as we age. With wealth, we can spend time on the things we choose. Some, through a combination of hard work and/or luck, get this freedom sooner. Past a certain point, we have enough money to cover all our basic needs. Money becomes a way to implement and affect what we want in the world.

I prefer to optimize for things that add meaning and pleasure. Unique experiences tend to move these metrics. What’s sad is when I see old people not trying to push boundaries. I’m told a side effect of age is becoming more content with the world. Content with your life and your surroundings. It sounds like a much needed rewiring to come to terms with life coming to an end. But to not actively alter your life for the better seems such a waste.

The most common trap I see old people fall into is talking about logistics. “Where are you staying?” “How are you getting there?” “When does it start?” “Who is going with you?” Even if one was fully analog, you could write this down in a notebook. Nowadays, this is all automated with reminders in our digital calendars.

Another trap is talking about other people. Gossiping. Saying “I heard about x and z”. Gossip is important as it helps weed out bad actors in society. But it should be done to an extent. Repeating the same stories and same gossip over and over is sadly a thing I’ve seen many elders do. There are so many more interesting things to do and talk about.

I admire those in their twilight years who paint, read/memorize poems, get into art, build businesses, travel the world, work on creative projects, teach, spend time with family and loved ones. It’s a fun way to live one’s remaining years.

The most interesting old people I meet who lived full lives would always have a new story each time I see them. They’re able to tell a fun story based on whatever context we’re discussing. This is the type of old person I want to be. I want to be full of life and joy. To add to the world in my twilight years. I hope I’m lucky enough to make it there.