Old people are often criticised or even poked fun at for some of their quirkier ways, but frankly, I think we can learn a lot from them.
Some of the habits our elderly people have might seem a little weird, or maybe not all that enjoyable, but they actually make life a lot easier in many ways. In fact, even young people could do with incorporating more of these habits into their daily lives!
1. Getting up at the crack of dawn
There’s something to be said for starting your day early. You get a head start on your to-do list, enjoy some peace and quiet before the world wakes up, and might even catch a beautiful sunrise. Plus, studies show early risers tend to be more productive. You don’t have to leap out of bed at 5 am (though my grandparents always did this!), but giving yourself a bit more morning time could make a big difference to your day.
2. Keeping a well-stocked pantry
Remember how gran always had everything on hand for unexpected guests or sudden cravings? There’s wisdom in that. Having a well-stocked pantry means you’re prepared for surprise visitors, sudden lockdowns, or those nights when you just can’t be bothered to go shopping. It’s also a great way to save money by buying in bulk when things are on offer.
3. Writing things down instead of relying on technology
Source: Unsplash While smartphones are handy, there’s something to be said for the old-school method of writing things down. Studies show we remember things better when we write them by hand. Plus, you never have to worry about your notebook running out of battery! Keeping a physical diary or to-do list might help you stay more organised and focused.
4. Mending clothes instead of throwing them away
Source: Unsplash Fast fashion has made it all too easy to bin clothes at the first sign of wear and tear. But learning basic sewing skills to mend your clothes not only saves money, it’s also better for the environment. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in giving new life to a beloved garment. You don’t need to be a seamstress — even mastering how to sew on a button can be useful.
5. Keeping a coin jar
Obviously, pretty much everything is contactless these days, which means we pretty much never pay attention to coins. But tossing your spare change into a jar can add up to a tidy sum over time. It’s a painless way to save for a treat or build up an emergency fund. You might be surprised how quickly those 5p and 10p coins amount to something substantial.
6. Reading the newspaper
While scrolling through news apps is convenient, there’s something to be said for sitting down with a physical newspaper. It gives you a chance to slow down, focus on the stories without distracting notifications, and maybe even learn about topics you might have scrolled past online. Plus, it’s a great way to give your eyes a break from screens.
7. Having a proper sit-down meal
Given how busy we all are all the time, it’s easy to fall into the habit of eating on the go or in front of the telly. However, taking the time to sit down for a proper meal, whether alone or with other people, can be a game-changer. It allows you to eat more mindfully, aids digestion, and if you’re with company, it’s a great opportunity for connection and conversation.
8. Gardening
Gardening isn’t just for retirees with time on their hands. Getting your hands dirty in the garden can be a great stress-reliever, provides gentle exercise, and connects you with nature. Even if you don’t have outdoor space, tending to a few houseplants or growing herbs on your windowsill can bring similar benefits.
9. Writing letters
Source: Unsplash Sure, you could just text or WhatsApp someone instantaneously, but there’s something special about receiving a handwritten letter. Taking the time to put pen to paper shows thought and effort. Plus, it’s a lovely way to keep in touch with friends and family who might not be as tech-savvy. The act of writing can also be quite therapeutic.
10. Keeping a bedside water carafe
Waking up thirsty in the middle of the night is no fun. Having a carafe of water by your bed, like many older folks do, means you’re always prepared. It’s a simple habit that can improve your sleep quality and help you stay hydrated. Plus, it looks rather sophisticated, doesn’t it? (If you don’t have a carafe, keeping your Stanley Quencher on the bedside table like I do works, too!)
11. Taking afternoon naps
While we often associate naps with the elderly, there’s growing evidence that a short afternoon snooze can boost productivity and mood. A 20-minute power nap can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your day. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might struggle to sleep at night.
12. Using a proper alarm clock
Many of us rely on our phones as alarm clocks, but this can lead to the temptation to check emails or social media first thing in the morning. Using a separate alarm clock means you can keep your phone out of the bedroom, potentially improving your sleep quality and helping you start your day without immediate digital distractions.
13. Keeping a first aid kit at home
It’s easy to think “it won’t happen to me”, but accidents do happen. Having a well-stocked first aid kit at home, like many older people do, means you’re prepared for minor injuries or ailments. It can save you a trip to the shops when you’re feeling under the weather, or provide quick treatment for small cuts and burns.
14. Making your bed every morning
It might seem like a small thing, but making your bed each morning can set a positive tone for the day. It gives you a small sense of accomplishment first thing and helps keep your space tidy. Plus, there’s nothing quite like climbing into a well-made bed at the end of a long day.
15. Carrying a handkerchief
While it might seem old-fashioned, having a handkerchief on hand can be surprisingly useful. It’s not just for sneezes — it can wipe away sweat, clean up small spills, or even be used as an emergency napkin. Plus, it’s more environmentally friendly than disposable tissues, even if it is a little gross.
16. Balancing your chequebook
Okay, maybe not literally balancing a chequebook, but keeping a close eye on your finances is a habit worth adopting from the older generation. Regularly reviewing your bank statements, tracking your spending, and budgeting can help you stay on top of your money and avoid financial surprises.
17. Having a ‘Sunday best’ outfit
While we don’t need to save our best clothes for church (assuming you go), there’s something to be said for having a special outfit ready for important occasions. It saves the last-minute panic when an invitation arrives, and ensures you always have something appropriate to wear. Plus, it’s a good excuse to invest in a quality piece that makes you feel great.
18. Embracing routine
Source: Unsplash Young people often pride themselves on being spontaneous, but there’s a lot to be said for having a routine. Regular habits can reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase productivity. You don’t need to plan every minute of your day, but having a basic structure can help you make the most of your time and energy.
