Young old people

It seems to me that as people grow older, they can be divided into two groups: people who seem really old (regardless of their age) and people who seem ageless.

The first category of folks get older, but they also get more and more depressing. They complain a lot and rarely act happy about anything. They are dissatisfied with how things have changed in their lifetime; they long for the good old days. Things were better back then.

The second group gets older, but they have a more positive outlook. They are generally pleasant, with wrinkles that come from smiling a lot. They are amazed and dazzled by all the changes that have occurred. They enjoy sharing their memories, but have no desire to go back to those times.

I've watched people in each of these groups over the years. The difference isn't physical health. I've seen healthy people turn into grumpy old people, and I've seen hurting/ailing people maintain their optimistic approach to life.

The difference doesn't seem to be upbringing or family relationships. Some curmudgeons have loving relatives and neighbors. Some delightful elderly people are all alone and extend their kindness to strangers.

In my decidedly unscientific observations, I have noticed one attribute that seems to characterize the smiling group: they maintain the ability and willingness to learn.

As they grow older and the world around them changes, they learn how to use the latest home appliances. These people adopt new trends and keep up with what younger people are discussing.

Rather than rejecting the changes around them, they embrace the changes, marvel at new things, find amusement in how their lives are different.

I wonder if the best antidote for aging is a lively, interested mind.