People who become impossible to be around as they get older usually display these 9 behaviors (without realizing it)

As we age, our personalities evolve, and not always for the better. Sometimes, without even realizing it, we can develop habits that make us a bit difficult to be around.

These behaviors can slip in unnoticed, gradually creating a barrier between us and the people we care about.

In this article, we’re going to talk about nine such behaviors that people often exhibit as they age, which can make them harder to be around. The intention is not to judge or criticize, but to bring awareness and foster understanding. After all, recognizing the problem is the first step towards addressing it.

1) They become inflexible

Change is part and parcel of life. But as some people age, they become increasingly resistant to change.

They develop a set way of doing things and don’t appreciate any deviations from their routine. It can be as minor as insisting on having their morning coffee at a specific time, or something more significant like being rigid in their beliefs and opinions.

This inflexibility can make it difficult for others to interact with them, especially in situations that require adaptability.

The key is to understand that this rigidity often stems from fear of the unknown or discomfort with unfamiliar situations. Patience and empathy can go a long way in dealing with such individuals.

2) They constantly reminisce

We all love a trip down memory lane every now and then, but some people tend to overdo it as they get older.

For example, my dear Uncle Joe has a habit of constantly talking about the “good old days”. Every conversation with him eventually circles back to how things were better in his time.

While it’s interesting to hear about the past now and then, continuously dwelling on it can be a bit of a drag. It can make it feel like you’re stuck in a time warp and the present moment is being overlooked.

3) They develop a negative outlook

As people age, some can fall into the trap of becoming overly pessimistic. They may start to see the world through a negative lens and find faults in almost everything.

This can be quite draining for those around them. Constant negativity can make interactions feel heavy and tiring, and it can often lead to conflict or disconnection.

Interestingly, research shows that negative thinking patterns can actually affect our physical health, increasing the risk of heart disease and other serious conditions.

The key is to recognize this trend and actively work on cultivating a more positive mindset. Practicing gratitude, focusing on the good aspects of life, and maintaining a healthy social circle can help combat negativity.

4) They become overly critical

Another behavior that can make people difficult to be around as they age is a tendency to become overly critical.

Sometimes, with age comes a sense of entitlement to pass judgement on others. This can manifest in constant criticism, often unsolicited, about everything from the way someone dresses to their life choices.

This can create an uncomfortable environment, and can often lead to strain in relationships.

Understanding that everyone has their own path in life, and that it’s not our place to judge or criticize them, can help break this pattern. It’s all about respecting each other’s individuality and personal choices.

5) They resist technology

In today’s fast-paced digital world, resisting technology can make older people seem difficult to interact with.

Whether it’s refusing to use a smartphone, struggling with online banking, or dismissing social media as a ‘waste of time’, this resistance can create a gap between them and the younger generation.

It’s important to remember that this resistance usually stems from fear or unfamiliarity. Encouragement and patience can help them overcome these hurdles and embrace the benefits of technology.

For those displaying this behavior, taking small steps towards learning and understanding new technologies can make a world of difference. Start with something simple, like setting up an email account or learning to video call, and gradually progress from there.

6) They often feel lonely

Loneliness can be a heartbreaking reality for many older people. As they age, their social circle may shrink due to various reasons, leaving them feeling isolated and alone.

This loneliness can often lead to behaviors that make them difficult to be around. They may become clingy, demanding more time and attention than others can give, or they might retreat into themselves, becoming detached and indifferent.

It’s crucial to understand the deep sense of loneliness they might be experiencing. Small gestures like a regular phone call, a surprise visit, or even a heartfelt letter can mean the world to them.

We all crave connection and companionship. Let’s ensure that as people get older, they don’t lose these fundamental human needs.

7) They struggle with acceptance

Aging brings with it many changes, both physical and emotional. For some, accepting these changes can be a struggle. I’ve seen this first-hand with my grandmother.

She was always a vibrant, independent woman, but as she grew older, she found it difficult to accept her declining physical abilities. She’d get frustrated with her inability to do things she once did effortlessly, and this often resulted in her lashing out at those trying to help.

This struggle with acceptance can make older individuals hard to be around, as it often manifests as anger or bitterness.

The key is to approach them with patience and understanding, reassure them of their worth beyond their physical abilities, and help them find new ways to feel fulfilled and content.

8) They become excessively worried

As people age, they often face uncertainty about their health, finances, and future. This can lead to excessive worry or anxiety, which can be difficult for those around them to handle.

They might constantly express their fears and concerns, or become overly cautious in their day-to-day activities, often seeking reassurance from others.

It’s important to approach these worries with empathy and understanding. Offering support, providing comfort, and helping them find solutions where possible can ease their worries.

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or breathwork, can also help in managing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm and control.

9) They forget to laugh

Laughter truly is the best medicine, but as some people age, they seem to forget how to laugh. They may take life too seriously, focusing only on problems and challenges, forgetting the lighter side of life.

Laughter brings joy, reduces stress, and has a positive impact on our overall wellbeing. Encouraging humor and light-heartedness can help them rediscover the joy of laughter.

No matter how old we are, it’s never too late to have a good laugh. It’s one of the simplest pleasures of life that keeps us connected to our youthful spirit.

Final thoughts: It’s a journey

A vital aspect to understand is the influence of time and life experiences on our behavior. As people age, their perspectives are shaped by decades of experiences, both good and bad. These experiences can significantly influence their behavior, often without them realizing it.

The behaviors we discussed are not signs of flawed character but are often responses to the challenges that come with aging. Patience, empathy, and understanding can go a long way in navigating these complexities.

Aging is a journey that we all undertake. As we embark on this journey, let’s strive to grow with grace, understanding, and acceptance. Let’s remember to be kind to ourselves and others as we navigate the winding roads of life.

As Mark Twain once said, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”