There’s a real gap between the beliefs of different generations, especially when it comes to those over 70.
Now, don’t get me wrong. Age brings wisdom. But sometimes, it can also bring along outdated ideas that just don’t hold water in today’s world.
We’re living in an era where things change at a breakneck pace. What was once thought to be the norm is now considered archaic. And that’s why it’s so important to question these long-held beliefs and examine them in the light of our current reality.
In this piece, we’ll be diving into 7 things that people over 70 often believe about the world that just don’t stack up anymore.
And hey, I’m not saying we should discard everything from the past – just that we should always be open to re-evaluating and updating our perspectives.
So, let’s take a journey together into these old-school beliefs and see if they still hold their ground in the face of today’s ever-evolving global landscape. Buckle up!
1) Traditional communication is king
With the dawn of the digital era, many of us have embraced modern methods of communication like texting, emails, and social media. But there’s a good number of people over 70 who still swear by the “good old days” of letters, phone calls and face-to-face conversations.
Now, don’t misunderstand. There’s an unmistakable charm and personal touch in those traditional methods. But to believe that they’re superior to or more effective than our current digital modes just doesn’t align with present-day reality.
In today’s fast-paced world, digital communication is a necessity, not a choice. It allows for instant connections across the globe, something that traditional methods can’t match up to.
So while it’s perfectly fine to cherish the charm of a handwritten letter or a leisurely phone call, it’s not quite right to dismiss digital communication as less valuable or authentic.
In fact, in many ways it has opened up avenues for connection that were unimaginable in the past.
2) Printed books are the only true form of reading
Being a voracious reader myself, I’ve had countless conversations with older folks who firmly believe that there’s no match for the smell of pages in a new book or the joy of flipping through a well-loved novel.
They see e-books and audiobooks as a sort of ‘cheating’ when it comes to reading.
I remember my mother once telling me, “You’re missing out on the real joy of reading!” when she saw me glued to my Kindle. And honestly, I used to think the same way until I discovered the convenience and accessibility that digital reading offers.
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Now, I can carry an entire library in my pocket, read in the dark without disturbing others, and instantly access any book I want. And let’s not forget about audiobooks – they’ve made ‘reading’ possible while cooking, driving, or even working out.
The belief that true reading only happens with printed books is something that just doesn’t hold up anymore. It’s not about replacing physical books, but acknowledging that e-books and audiobooks are just different forms of enjoying literature.
3) Mindfulness is a new-age fad
Mindfulness is often perceived as a trendy, new-age concept by many older folks. They tend to see it as some sort of spiritual mumbo-jumbo rather than a practical tool for mental well-being.
However, mindfulness has been around for centuries, deeply rooted in ancient Buddhist practices. Today, its benefits are supported by a wealth of scientific research, showing its effectiveness in reducing stress, anxiety, and even chronic pain.
The belief that mindfulness is just a passing fad overlooks the fact that it’s a timeless practice backed by science and embraced by millions around the world. So before dismissing it as such, I’d strongly encourage people to give it a try and experience its benefits firsthand.
4) Technology is more of a hindrance than a help
There’s a notion among many who are 70 and over that technology has complicated our lives more than it has simplified them. They often reminisce about the ‘simpler days’ when smartphones and the internet did not dominate our lives.
While there’s no denying that excessive screen time or dependence on gadgets can lead to problems, it’s not fair to label technology as a menace.
Rather than being a hindrance, technology has been a boon in so many ways. It has transformed how we work, learn, communicate, shop, and even how we stay healthy.
In fact, during the lockdown due to the pandemic, technology proved to be a lifeline for many of us. It enabled us to continue working from home, keep up with our fitness routines with virtual gym classes, and stay connected with loved ones when physical meetups were impossible.
5) Retirement means slowing down
Retirement is often perceived as stepping off the fast track and slowing down. Many folks over 70 believe that it’s a time to sit back, rest, and take life easy. While this may sound appealing, it’s a belief that doesn’t quite fit in today’s world.
In contrast to the traditional view of retirement, many people are using this phase of life as an opportunity to explore new interests, take up hobbies, start businesses, or even travel the world.
Retirement isn’t about slowing down but about having the freedom to speed up in areas you are passionate about. It’s a chance to focus on the things you love but never had time for during your working years.
In fact, staying active and engaged during retirement can contribute significantly to mental and physical health. Studies have shown that people who engage in meaningful activities during their retirement years are happier and live longer.
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So, instead of viewing retirement as a time to slow down, it’s more beneficial to see it as a new chapter filled with opportunities. It’s a time when you’re finally free to follow your passions and live life on your own terms.
6) Younger generations lack respect
It’s a common refrain among the older population: “Young people these days have no respect!” This belief, while perhaps grounded in some truth, doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.
Respect is a value that transcends generations. Yes, the way it’s expressed may vary widely across different cultures and age groups, but its essence remains unchanged.
Younger generations may express respect differently than their elders. For instance, the insistence on equality and social justice that many young people champion today can be seen as a deep form of respect for individuals and their rights.
Moreover, it’s important to note that generalizations about any age group can be unfair and unhelpful. Just as not all seniors are technophobic, not all young people are disrespectful. There are countless youngsters who show immense respect for elders, traditions, and societal norms.
It’s all about keeping an open mind and fostering mutual understanding across generations.
7) Change is bad
Change is often viewed with suspicion and resistance, especially among the older generation. There’s a belief that the old ways are better, and any deviation from them is detrimental.
However, change is not only inevitable, but it’s also necessary for progress. It allows us to learn, grow and adapt to the evolving world around us.
While not all change is good, automatically dismissing it as bad is a mindset that can hinder growth and progress. Instead of resisting change, it’s more beneficial to approach it with curiosity and openness.
Remember, it’s through change that we’ve made remarkable advancements in areas like healthcare, technology, and human rights. So rather than fearing change, let’s embrace it as an opportunity for learning and advancement.
Final thoughts
At its core, this discussion isn’t about proving anyone wrong or right. It’s about opening our minds to different perspectives and understanding that beliefs evolve with time and circumstances.
The beliefs held by those over 70 were shaped in a different era, and they served them well in their time. However, in our rapidly changing world, it’s important to constantly re-evaluate our beliefs and adapt to new realities.
This approach isn’t just beneficial for those over 70, but for all of us. It’s about embracing change, fostering understanding across generations, and acknowledging that our world is a beautifully complex place with room for diverse viewpoints.
Let’s remember that the beauty of life lies in its diversity and constant evolution. It’s these differences and changes that keep our world spinning and make our journey through life an endlessly fascinating one.
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