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I'm 29, and as a child, spent lots of time with my grandparents - probably more than usual. I also remember many of their friends, many of whom were ten or so years older than they were. Some of my fondest memories in middle school are of the man two houses down from my grandfather (he was born in 1917, I was born in 1986) showing me how to run a rototiller and other garden appliances, and plant various vegetables. I was just a little kid and he let me tag along, but he was like another grandfather to me. I knew virtually everyone on that street - most were older than my grandparents and are dead now, but it felt like I had a village full of grandparents.
As I've aged, I've found a lot of my friends here in my new location in Indiana are in their 50s and 60s. I began frequenting a bar last year where some of those folks also patronized, and have gotten to know the regulars, and some of their families. My girlfriend and I have been to two Christmas parties from people I've met locally, all in their 50s older. Combine these new local friends with a lot of the neighbors and friends I've made through my parents back home, and it's safe to say I have more friends in their 50s/60s than I do my own age. At the very least, I communicate with the older folks more frequently.
As a retiree, do you have a lot of friendships with younger adults? How do you value those relationships?
I spend time in the company of many in my congregation who just happen to be alot younger. I frequently make lunch for any who wish to avail themselves on that particular day, and as things go, the majority who show up for the friendly meal are those ages 16 to their mid 20's. I love to cook and enjoy those who appreciate a home cooked meal. It makes me feel good knowing I am feeding young ones, but also feel good knowing that they are not put off by an older person. They ask about my late husband, how am I getting on, do I need anything fixed/done while they are there, etc. I appreciate their company and I think it helps to keep me young mentally. Love it! I also learn a lot about what is on their minds... how they are thinking, what are they concerned with etc. They are also extemely helpful with the latest technology, no surprise there LOL. Anyway, it helps me feel connected and a part of things and I appreciate their time and attention. Good deal for both. There is a couple in particular that I consider almost adopted children. I trust them to care for my pets when I travel, if my own children aren't available to do so etc and we trade that service for each other really. Nice arrangement.
I think it takes time to break the ice so to speak with those out of your age group and comfort zone. But once you do, the benefits are enormous and you both come out the better for it.
Last edited by mamasplace; 12-20-2015 at 08:21 PM..
Reason: needed to add...
We know very few young people. Just have very little in common with them. As "Baby Boomers", we simply come from an entire different generation than they do.
As for us, we try staying younger by acting younger..........and some older folks don't understand that either. We definitely don't like gray hair, so we both use hair coloring. Just For Me (mustache/temples) and Clarol for my wife. I've got a full head of hair and that stuns some older folks. Most people never guess we are in our mid-60's!
I am in my 60's,Wife is in her 30's, Three children, 26,10,9 mos. Back in NY my friends are all in there 60's and family goes up too 98, here in paradise most acquaintances and friends range from late 20's to late 30's with the odd 60-75 y/o thrown in for good measure.
I'm 63, most my friends are younger. My Dad is 86, all his friends are my age My best friend is my age, my neighbor across the street is younger. to be honest, I've never thought about how old the people are that I call friends, granted there aren't many, but that's okay.
As you get older maybe age does not matter as much. I would say 29 and 50 or 60 are in the same age group.
Health maybe more important. As we age and health declines we may not get out as much and have limited contract with the younger crowd.
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