Lucas M
Every generation seems to have some common behaviors. The similarities in the preferences and lifestyles of people from the same generation often reflect their experiences and time and make us wonder how our lives would have been if we had existed back then. In this list, we’ll focus on habits commonly found among people over 50.
Listening to Vinyl Records or CDs
When many of us think of music, Spotify and Apple Music come to mind. Maybe we used CDs at some point, but that’s over now, and these apps can give us playlists. The older generation still enjoys their vinyl and CD music and brags about their collections.
Writing Letters or Sending Cards by Mail
First, we must confess that handwritten letters and cards are the cutest ways of sending messages. However, thanks to social media, we don’t see as much of them as we want to these days. That’s why we appreciate those oldies who still value the idea of penning notes for their loved ones.
Reading a Physical Newspaper
Many young people aren’t interested in the news, and when those who care need to stay current, they’ll stay updated online. But for oldies, sitting on a porch with legs crossed and heads buried in the dailies or consuming info from it on their way back from work on the bus is the way to go!
Carrying Change in a Coin Purse
Using a small coin purse is still pretty standard among older adults, but it’s becoming rare among younger generations. This simple accessory holds sentimental value and reflects a generation that values practicality and thrift.
Using a Rolodex
Thanks to Rolodexes, keeping important contacts organized was easy. However, technology has shown us that Rolodexes may not be the best way to organize contacts. However, tech is not going to tell those over 50 how to live their lives, as some still use them.
Referring to the Remote as a “Clicker”
Do you know that remotes were once called “clickers”? That’s because they made clicking sounds when they were pressed. The remotes we see nowadays don’t have this characteristic, but those who grew up on the clicker name may hold onto it forever—and we can’t judge them for it.
Taking Photos with a Camera, Not a Phone
There was a time when phones couldn’t take pictures, and cameras were a must for anyone who wanted to take pictures. Camera phones came on the scene and have improved to give us better photos. Today’s smartphones can take impressive photos, but some older people prefer to use their cameras.
Watching TV Shows Live
Streaming services allow us to watch episodes of a show after they have aired, but older people typically prefer to watch them live on TV. Before on-demand streaming, they planned their lives around their favorite shows, and they may not see any point in changing that now.
Using Paper Maps
Paper maps may be complex for us to read, but older people once depended on them, and they helped them when they went hiking, visited a new city, or traveled long distances. GPS may be the trend today, but it’s familiarity over convenience for some people over 50.
Carrying a Handkerchief
No one uses handkerchiefs anymore—well, except older adults mostly. Many millennials and Gen-Zers would rather use paper towels. This disposable option is more hygienic as it can be disposed of after being used to cover a sneeze or blow one’s nose. It’s probably safe to assume someone using a hankie is past midlife.
Using Formal Titles
Call many people formally today, and they’ll tell you to use the casual option. While we’re gradually shifting from the title and last name combo to first names, not all older people are in love with this shift. They prefer to call others and to be called the formal way.
Using a Wall Calendar for Scheduling
Many individuals aged 50 and above still find enjoyment in physically marking important dates and appointments on a traditional wall calendar, even in today’s digital age, where digital calendars are prevalent. There is no denying that it can be pretty satisfying.
Shopping In-Store Instead of Online
Most elderly people want to see and feel what they’re buying before they pay for it. Multiple pictures on a screen with added descriptions just don’t cut it for them. They’d rather go to the store than wait for their order to be brought to them.
Describing Prices in “Old” Currency or Terms
Some of us may have heard our parents use words like “a dime” or “a nickel.” Do you notice how your peers don’t use such terms when discussing money? It shows that people who use those words are from a different era, and we can use that as a pointer to their age.
Using a Landline Phone
Many people over 50 met the landline in its prime, and while they may have adapted to getting our smartphones, they still love to use landlines when they can. Some keep it for the aesthetic boost it gives to living spaces; for others, it’s their connection to the past.
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