31 Behaviors That Say More About Your Age Than You Think
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Growing older is a natural part of life, but sometimes our everyday habits can make us seem older than we really are. It’s interesting to think about how our actions and preferences can unintentionally reveal clues about our generation.
Let’s be clear, this isn’t about criticizing anyone’s lifestyle choices. Instead, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how our habits evolve over time and how they might be perceived by others.
Today, we’re going to look at 31 habits that might be giving away your age. As we go through the list, think about how many of these habits you recognize in yourself or in people you know.
Did we miss any? Let us know!
We also created a video that we included at the end. Check it out!
Table of Contents
Sticking to Your Landline Phone
Many older individuals still prefer using a landline phone at home. While most people have switched to mobile phones, some can’t let go of that familiar ring and the comfort of a traditional handset.
If you find yourself reaching for your home phone instead of your cell phone, you might be showing your age a bit.
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Navigating with Paper Maps
GPS apps have made getting around much easier, but some people still love the challenge of a paper map. If you keep a road atlas in your car or enjoy planning your route the old-school way, you might be revealing your age.
This habit shows off your excellent planning skills and your ability to read a map, something many younger people struggle with these days.
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Related: 24 Travel Hacks You Can Do On Your Phone For free
Early to Bed, Early to Rise
Are you the type who’s tucked in bed at 9 PM and up at the crack of dawn? While there’s nothing wrong with getting a good night’s sleep, this habit is often linked to older generations.
Early risers often boast about their productivity, and they might be onto something. Just remember, it’s okay to sleep in once in a while too!
Related: 22 Life Lessons Boomers Want You to Know
Loyal to Cable TV
With all the streaming services available now, many people have cut ties with traditional cable. But if you’re still channel surfing and setting your DVR, you might be showing your age.
Cable TV offers a different viewing experience, with scheduled programs and the joy of stumbling upon an unexpected gem while flipping channels.
Related: 28 Household Items Retirees Can Borrow from the Library
Sending Snail Mail
In a world of instant messaging and emails, taking the time to write a letter or send a postcard is becoming rare. If you still love putting pen to paper and using stamps, you’re keeping a beautiful tradition alive.
This habit might hint at your age, but it also shows thoughtfulness and a personal touch that digital communication often lacks.
Related: 🏡27 Traditions That Americans Are Losing Quickly 👔
Wearing a Wristwatch
These days, most people check the time on their phones. But if you still strap on a watch every morning, you’re part of a classic club. Wearing a watch isn’t just about telling time, it’s a style statement and a practical accessory.
Plus, it’s much more polite to glance at your wrist than pull out your phone during a conversation!
Related: 34 Obsolete Things That Were Way Better Than What We Use Now
Reading the Morning Paper
There’s something comforting about flipping through a physical newspaper with your morning coffee. While many have switched to digital news, if you’re still getting ink on your fingers, you might be giving away your age.
But you’re also staying informed and supporting local journalism, not to mention giving your eyes a break screen.
Related: 36 Things We Used to Do Before Technology Changed Everything
Green Thumb Enthusiast
Gardening is a hobby for all ages, but it’s often associated with older people. If your idea of a perfect weekend involves getting your hands dirty in the garden, you might be showing your age.
Gardening demonstrates patience, nurturing skills, and a connection to nature, all admirable qualities at any age.
Related: Need a Greener Garden? Here’s How to Start Sustainable Gardening Today!
Playing It Safe
As we get older, we often become more cautious. If you find yourself avoiding risky activities or always choosing the safer option, you might be revealing your age.
This cautiousness comes from wisdom and life experience. It’s okay to be careful, but don’t let fear hold you back enjoying new experiences!
Related: 31 Things You Should Never Do Again After You Turn 50
Cash Is King
In a world of contactless payments and digital wallets, carrying cash is becoming less common. If your wallet is still stuffed with bills, you might be showing your age.
But being prepared with cash can be handy in many situations, and some would argue it helps with budgeting better than credit cards do.
Related: 13 Pieces of Bad Financial Advice That Most People Still Believe (According to A CFA)
DIY Home Repairs
There’s a certain pride in fixing things yourself. If you’re the type who’d rather spend a weekend repairing a leaky faucet than calling a plumber, you might be revealing your age.
This hands-on approach shows resourcefulness and thriftiness. While younger generations might turn to YouTube tutorials, you rely on years of experience and a well-stocked toolbox.
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Board Game Nights
Video games dominate the entertainment scene, but board games still hold a special place in many hearts. If your idea of fun is a night of Monopoly or Scrabble with friends, you might be showing your age.
These games offer a different kind of social interaction, fostering face-to-face communication and friendly competition.
Related: 30 Things Likely To Vanish With Baby Boomers: A Farewell to What Was Normal
Slippers Around the House
Comfort is key, right? If you have a dedicated pair of slippers for padding around the house, you might be giving away your age.
This habit shows you value comfort and take care of your feet. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your floors clean and your feet warm!
Related: Do Not Do These 30 Activities If You Are Over 75
Sticking to Family Recipes
While trying new cuisines is exciting, there’s something special about cooking the same recipes your grandma used.
If you prefer traditional dishes over trendy food fads, you might be showing your age. These time-tested recipes often carry emotional value and connect us to our roots.
Related: Easy Dinner: Homemade Bacon Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper Recipe
The Feel of a Real Book
E-readers are convenient, but nothing beats the smell and feel of a physical book. If your shelves are still stocked with paperbacks and hardcovers, you might be revealing your age.
This habit shows a love for the tactile experience of reading and perhaps a bit of nostalgia for simpler times.
Related: 30 Once Popular Boomer Items That Millennials Won’t Buy Anymore
Handwritten Shopping Lists
In a world of smartphone apps, writing a shopping list by hand might seem old-fashioned. But if you still jot down your grocery needs on paper, you’re keeping a practical tradition alive.
This habit shows good planning skills and might help you remember items better than typing them into a phone.
Related: The Art of Frugal Food Shopping: How To Save On Groceries
Reading Glasses Everywhere
If you find yourself stashing reading glasses in every room of the house, you’re not alone. This habit might give away your age, but it also shows you’re always ready to tackle any text that comes your way.
It’s a practical solution to a common issue many people face as they get older.
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Reminiscing About “The Good Old Days”
We all look back on the past sometimes, but if you find yourself starting sentences with “Back in my day…” more often than not, you might be showing your age.
This habit reveals a wealth of life experiences and can provide valuable perspective to younger generations.
Related: The Evolution From Baby Boomers to Gen Alpha
Using Formal Titles
If you still address people as “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Miss,” you’re keeping politeness alive. While it might reveal your age, it also shows respect for others.
In a world where casual communication is the norm, this formality can be refreshing.
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Tech Troubles
Struggling with new gadgets doesn’t automatically mean you’re old, but it can be a sign. If you find yourself asking for help with your smartphone more often than you’d like, you might be giving away your age.
Remember, though, that every new piece of technology is an opportunity to learn something new.
Related: 22 Ways Technology Has Made Americans Lives Worse
Classic Fashion Choices
While fashion trends come and go, some people prefer timeless styles. If your wardrobe hasn’t changed much in the last few decades, you might be showing your age.
This habit demonstrates confidence in your personal style and a resistance to fleeting trends.
Related: Are You Upper Class? 24 Signs Someone Is In The Upper Class
Desktop Computer Loyalty
Laptops and tablets are popular, but some people still prefer the reliability of a desktop computer. If you have a dedicated computer desk at home, you might be revealing your age.
This setup often provides a more ergonomic work environment and can be easier to upgrade over time.
Related: 7 Crazy Ways Technology Will Make Your Finances Better
Embracing the Gray
Letting your natural hair color shine through is becoming more popular. If you’ve decided to go gray gracefully, you’re showing confidence in your age.
This choice can be liberating, saving time and money on hair dye while embracing the changes that come with getting older.
Related: 31 Hardest Parts of Getting Older That No One Really Wants To Talk About (With Video)
Comfort in Chain Restaurants
While trying new local eateries can be fun, there’s something reassuring about familiar chain restaurants. If you prefer places where you always know what to expect, you might be giving away your age.
This habit shows an appreciation for consistency and comfort in dining experiences.
Related: 11 Cheap Restaurants for a Group: From A Large Family!
Regular Health Check-ups
Taking care of your health is important at any age, but if you’re diligent about regular check-ups and screenings, you might be showing your age. This habit demonstrates a proactive approach to health and wellness.
It’s a smart way to catch potential issues early and maintain your quality of life.
Related: 30 Ways to Save on Prescription Medications
Impressive DVD or CD Collection
Streaming services have changed how we consume media, but some people still love their physical collections. If your shelves are lined with DVDs or CDs, you might be revealing your age.
This habit shows a love for tangible media and perhaps a nostalgic connection to favorite movies and albums.
Related: Smells Like 90s Spirit: Popular Things From The 1990s That Faded Away
In-Store Shopping Fan
Online shopping is convenient, but some people still prefer the experience of browsing in a physical store. If you’d rather try things in person than order online, you might be showing your age.
This habit demonstrates a hands-on approach to shopping and a preference for immediate gratification.
Related: Tips on How to Shop with Coupons and Deals
Wall Calendar Enthusiast
Digital calendars are handy, but there’s something satisfying about writing appointments on a real calendar. If you still hang a calendar on your wall, you might be giving away your age.
This habit shows good organizational skills and a visual approach to planning.
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Traditional Values
Our views often reflect the times we grew up in. If you find yourself holding onto more conservative or traditional values, you might be showing your age.
These principles have likely guided you through life and shaped your worldview. It’s important to remain open to new ideas while staying true to your core beliefs.
Related: Times Are Changing: 20 Traditions That Americans Are Losing To “Progress”
Outdated Slang
Language evolves quickly, and using older slang can be a dead giveaway of your age. If you still use phrases like “groovy” or “far out,” you might be revealing your age.
This habit can be charming and often leads to interesting conversations about how language changes over time.
Related: The Reasons Why Most Companies Don’t Want to Hire People Over 50 Anymore
Classic Entertainment Choices
While there’s always new music and movies coming out, some people prefer the classics. If your playlist is full of oldies or you’d rather watch a black-and-white film than the latest blockbuster, you might be showing your age.
This habit demonstrates an appreciation for timeless entertainment of your generation.
Related: 30 Decent Discounts That Many Seniors Forget They Get
Embracing Your Age
Now that we’ve gone through all 31 habits, how many did you recognize in yourself? Remember, there’s no shame in any of these behaviors, they’re all part of what makes you unique.
We also created this video of signs that you are getting old.
Age is just a number, but our habits can speak volumes. Embrace your unique traits, learn from different generations, and keep an open mind.
After all, the best way to stay young at heart is to never stop growing, learning, and appreciating the journey of life.
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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.