Old people regularly complain about younger generations and societal changes. Most people roll their eyes, but some of their issues are actually valid, and old people actually have a point about these 17 complaints.
Old people have noticed a decline in respect
Many older people feel that society has become less courteous and respectful, and they’re not wrong. Basic manners are now regularly overlooked in daily interactions, and respect is not what it used to be. Plus, many people are absorbed in their phones and don’t even notice those around them.
Community ties have declined
The community was a big deal for a long time, but connections with neighbors and locals have declined. Psychology Today says that community provides belonging, support, and identity. Community bonds have become weak, and older people remember them being much stronger in the past. We need to get them back.
Over-reliance on technology is a bit of an issue
Older generations are concerned over younger people’s dependence on technology. While technology is great for many things, it also disconnects us from the world and makes it difficult to think for ourselves. Over-reliance on technology leads to a lack of social skills, face-to-face communication, and creative thinking.
There is definitely a decreased quality in customer service
Great customer service used to be the standard, but now it’s a surprise when you receive it. We’ve all noticed and become accustomed to it, but older people won’t accept it. There are also fewer personal interactions due to more automated systems.
The current lifestyle is too fast-paced
The rapid pace of modern life can be overwhelming, and old people always complain that we need to slow down. Older individuals often complain that younger generations don’t stop to enjoy the moment, and they’re right. We’re always striving for the next thing instead of appreciating where we are.
Handwriting skills have been lost
It’s more common to type into a phone or on a computer than to pick up a pen and paper. As a result, handwriting skills have been lost. After school, it is pretty rare to physically write when digital communication has taken over. Older people value great handwriting skills and have noticed we’ve lost the art.
Old people complain about poor grammar and spelling
Old people are constantly nagging younger generations about using correct grammar and spelling. It’s troubling to older people that the casual nature of digital technology has resulted in a lack of proper spelling and grammar. However, correct grammar makes reading and listening easier, conveying the message correctly.
We’ve disconnected from nature
Older generations often stress the importance of being outdoors and getting in touch with nature. They worry that younger people have disconnected from nature, and they’re pretty right about this. Spending time outside used to be the norm, but more people now stay indoors, absorbed by technology.
Many people complain about consumer culture
The older generation criticizes the throwaway culture we live in today. They advocate for a more mindful and sustainable approach that aligns with how they grew up. Investopedia says consumerism leads to a materialistic society that overlooks other values.
Work ethic is slowly eroding
A strong work ethic was a leading personality trait for older generations. They grew up to understand the importance of work ethic and noticed it eroding in younger generations. America currently has a high unemployment rate, and many people who are employed don’t appreciate their opportunities.
Older people don’t agree with the lack of privacy
It’s called a private life for a reason, but thanks to social media, many people share the ins and outs of their lives. Older people aren’t on board with younger generations’ willingness to share details of their lives publicly. We definitely need to keep some things close to our chests.
The rise in noise pollution is irritating
The world used to be a much quieter place, but the increase in traffic, urbanization, and technology have led to more noise pollution. Older people can find this distressing, and we agree it’s incredibly difficult to find a quiet spot, and the constant background noise can get a little irritating.
Old people critique over-medication
Younger generations are a lot more reliant on medication than older generations ever were. Medication is more easily prescribed, and most people resort to over-the-counter treatment for even a minor ailment. According to NBC News, 3.5 billion prescriptions are issued in America every year, and there’s no denying that’s a lot.
Face-to-face interactions have dropped
We probably communicate with others more than we ever have. The issue is that these communications are digital. Face-to-face interactions continue to drop, and online interactions lead to a loss of meaningful connections. Older people think this causes isolation, and they have a point.
Lack of basic life skills is a problem
Practical life skills were normal to learn for older generations, but a lot of younger people lack them. Cooking, sewing, and basic home repairs are skills that a lot of young people don’t have. However, you can’t deny that they are important skills to possess.
Children are over-scheduled
We have lost the art of boredom, and children, in particular, are overscheduled. Older people believe that children today have little freedom to play, explore, and be creative. Their schedules are jam-packed with activities and commitments, and they have no time to just be children.
Older generations criticize over-processed food
Older people advocate for the return of home-cooked meals and nutritious food. Society has been consumed with over-processed food and convenient meals. Medical News Today states that over-processed food accounts for 25-60% of the average American’s daily energy intake but can lead to many health complications.
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