I try to think back to when my parents were in their 60s to see if I recall any of the unexpected things about aging that I’m going to share with you here today, and honestly, I don’t. Not even one.
Or maybe I wasn’t paying attention, but watching them age seemed normal and seamless. Turns out, it’s neither.
When I hit 60, all hell broke loose physically, mentally, emotionally and even psychologically. It was a whirlwind of emotions that I wasn’t prepared for. Now at 64 years old, things just keep getting weirder and weirder.
It seems every day there’s a new thing. Here are 10 of the unexpected things about aging no one prepares you for.
The Things About Aging You Don’t See Coming
Everyone gets older differently, but here are a few surprises that might sound familiar. Some are funny, some are uncomfortable, and a few leave you shaking your head saying “wtf”?
Going Out After Dinner Sounds Like Too Much Work
There was a time when going out at eight sounded normal. Now, if you invite me somewhere at eight, I’ll think you’re high or drunk. I still enjoy going out, but I’d appreciate it if we could have our fun and be home before dark.
Once dinner is finished, I’m pretty much finished too. I want comfortable clothes, something decent to watch, and absolutely no reason to put my bra back on.
You Want Nice Skin More Than Younger-Looking Skin
Up until I reached my 50s, I hardcore cared about what my face and skin looked like. I did what I could to combat wrinkles and any signs of aging.
These days? I could not care less. My cream of choice is sunscreen and a little all-natural aloe vera gel. I have better things to spend my money on than $200 anti-aging serums that promise to make me look 25 again.
Hard pass
Your Give-a-Shit Meter Breaks
This was a big shocker for me and a welcome one at that! I do not give a shit about gossip, drama, toxicity, what the neighbours are doing, who they are banging or what you think about my clothes, hair, etc.
I especially don’t care what you think of me. Don’t like me? Don’t care. I don’t exist to impress people anymore.
I have no time to waste on bs. Listen, at this point, I have no idea how much time I have left and wasting it on gossip seems beyond ridiculous. No thanx.
You Think About Your Mortality More
This is one of the things about aging that came as a huge surprise, and trust me when I say it’s a terrifying thought, and I’ll be honest, not one that I like. You seriously think about death more. Our friends are dying in their 60s.
I mean, I could be next, right? It’s scary!
I do try to replace those morbid thoughts with, “Well, dammit I’m still here so let’s enjoy the day!”
Loneliness Can Catch You Off Guard
If you’re single, separated, or widowed, it can be the ordinary moments that get to you. Having something funny to share, wanting a hug, or wishing someone would ask how your day went. Some days feel perfectly fine, and others feel a little harder.
For me, living alone is freeing and lonely at the same time. Both can be true. But loneliness hits hard when I least expect it. That’s when I pet a cat 🙂
A Small Circle of Friends Means More
In the last few years, I’ve noticed my friend circle getting smaller and smaller, and the ones that are in my circle are true friends. I have weeded out the people who no longer bring value to my life but suck the happy out of me.
As I got older, I realized that my time and energy are pretty precious, and I can’t waste them on fair-weather friends anymore. Making new friends is exhausting, so I keep the ones I have close.
You Become More Interested in Taking Care of Your Health
Health is wealth. If you don’t have your health, you have nothing, and lately, I’ve become hyper-aware of my health. I’ve had two serious health scares in the last month that reminded me I’m not 25 anymore and I need to be more mindful of my health.
I quit smoking last year (after 50 years!), I don’t drink alcohol anymore; I try to eat right and stay physically active. I play brain games every night and challenge my brain to try and do new things. All these things are more important than ever.
Your Body Seems to Change Overnight
You know your body is going to age, but then you notice crepey skin somewhere you swear was perfectly smooth last month. Your boobies have moved further down your belly, and your butt has followed.
It can take some getting used to.
When you look in the mirror and see your aging body, you actually miss your youthful self and realize there’s a whole grieving process that goes along with that. Weird.
New Aches and Pains Arrive Without Explanation
You wake up with a sore shoulder and wonder what the hell hit you while you were sleeping. Or maybe it was something you lifted the day before? Did you accidentally walk into a wall? Who knows.
Every new pain reminds you that aging is happening and we aren’t young anymore. Back, knees, hips, feet, etc. I wasn’t expecting this part of aging, as I’ve always prided myself on being healthy and strong. Ah well.
You Want Less Stuff Around You
And for me, it’s not just wanting less stuff; I also have no emotional attachment to the stuff I have. When I die, donate it to charity.
I used to want all the newest and latest gadgets, the nicest clothes and jewelry. Now? Nope. Most of my clothes come from a second-hand store, and I live pretty minimally, and I love it!
Want more honest conversations about life after 60? Join me here for practical tips on feeling better, staying strong, and enjoying your life.
Final thoughts on the unexpected things about aging
Aging has been challenging, weird, frustrating and liberating for me. New aches and pains, fewer friends, and more freedom are all part of it, and while I don’t love the aches, I’m just happy to still be alive.
What part of aging has surprised you the most? I’d love to hear it. Drop down in the comments.
