10 Things People Were Utterly Unprepared for When They Finally Got Old

Getting old is inevitable, yet, untimely. No one’s entirely prepared for it, but that’s okay. While the experience may appear scary, knowing it’s not a lone struggle makes things easy.

Thus, here are insights from a popular online community on aging and the unforeseen circumstances it presents.

1. Daily Discomfort

elders in discomfort — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

While it’s common knowledge that older people are not as physically fit as when they were younger, it’s still shocking when you experience it yourself.

As someone points out, they still can’t believe how much discomfort and impairment constitutes getting older. Another user asserts that the body becomes unforgiving and recovery is slow.

2. The Case of the Missing Glasses

Many miss their 20/20 vision. Having to reach your glasses for the little things can be frustrating. And, of course, as another person comments, misplacing your spectacles is the worst.

They mention stationing old glasses in key locations around the house so that if you lose your primary pair, an emergency pair will be nearby.

3. Permanent Injury

wheelchair — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Someone in their 50s points out that every harm done to your body is now irreversible. In your younger years, twisting an ankle would be no biggie since you’d heal on your own. But as you age, jamming a finger will hurt for a long time.

4. Impending Doom

Death is inevitable, but knowing that does not make it easy. As a user mentions, growing old means witnessing the demise of those you know. It’s important to have emotional support during such calamities.

5. Counting Calories

Elder eating food — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

As a 61-year-old user discusses, calorie intake should be drastically reduced despite remaining active. Metabolism slows down, and you can no longer eat as free as you once did.

Another person in their 50s advises forum members to realize that their digestive system is undergoing changes, which is okay. There are numerous healthy and delicious food options, so it’s not the end.

6. Night Vision

Darkness and shadows become scarier than ever. As someone aptly describes, driving at night is like maneuvering through a pot of the darkest ink, interrupted by twin blinding supernovas affixed to the front of every vehicle.

Additionally, a second user adds that the darker or shadowy sections of the house become challenging to navigate.

7. Blaming Boomers

Not all boomers are bad. A 68-year-old user feels astounded and horrified by the level of hate directed at them by young people.

Old folks aren’t to be blamed for all the problems. After all, they were a product of their time, like anyone else.

8. Swift Arrival

Growing old is inevitable, yet it takes you aback when you get there. It comes quicker than expected, and you can never feel completely prepared. However, that’s part of the process.

9. Menopause

Women having medicine — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

For most aging women, menopause can be a struggle. A user mentions vaginal atrophy, caused by a lack of estrogen, as a painful experience that many women go through.

Yet, there’s not enough awareness, leaving women confused and unprepared.