It can be hard trying to navigate through the silent but implied age restrictions that society puts on things.
Simply typing ‘am I too old’ in Google will enlighten you on the things we worry are no longer age-appropriate, like long hair, study, Doc Martens and dating apps.
According to us, the answer to all those search questions is no. Because nobody can tell you you’re too old for something – except for you of course.
Here are 21 examples of things you’ll never be ‘too old’ for.
1. Amusement Parks
There is such a thing as being too short for a ride, but there’s no such thing as being ‘too old’ for a ride.
Whether you’re thrill-seeking or chill-seeking, there’s plenty to see and do no matter how old you are.
Plus, at amusement parks like Adventure World, seniors pay a fraction of the price that kids and adults do!
2. Emoji
These days, a simple emoji can say it all.
We can all appreciate the convenience of a universal language, and with more and more over 55s flocking to Facebook, we’d better get used to seeing them.
3. Animation
Just because you’re no spring chicken anymore, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Chicken Run.
Whether it’s black and white nostalgia or 21st century CGI, animation is for everyone. And just because something is animated, doesn’t mean it lacks meaning (like the cautionary environmental message in Wall-E).
4. Colouring Books
The adult colouring book market has blossomed over the last few years, and for good reason.
Colouring can help you find your flow – the state where you’re so absorbed in an activity, that stress and lingering worries take a back seat.
5. Fashion
As the legendary Iris Apfel implies, why shouldn’t we keep dressing to impress?
While you might prefer to dress ‘age-appropriately’, that doesn’t mean new fashion trends are out of the question. At the end of the day, confidence is always in style.
6. Christmas
Counting down the days already?
If you loved Christmas as a kid, chances are you still do. What’s not to love about fun times and festive food?
7. A Convertible
There’s no greater feeling than riding round town with the top down.
Forget the mid-life crisis stereotype – if your days of being taxi driver to the kids are done, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy the air in your hair.
8. Fairy Bread
Ok, so there might not be a lot in the way of nutritional content, but all in moderation!
Fairy bread has been a staple at Aussie kids’ parties since the 1920s, evoking hundreds and thousands of fond childhood memories.
9. Exercise
It’s never too late to invest in your wellbeing.
In fact, even if you’ve never been one for exercise, taking it up later in life can still have a significant impact on your longevity.
So don’t just leave the dumbbells and treadmills to the twenty-somethings – be active now so you can stay active later. Any exercise is better than no exercise, so treat your daily dog walk or gardening routine as the perfect opportunity to get your heart rate up.
READ >> 5 reasons to keep walking as you get older
10. Blowing Bubbles
There’s something so satisfying about watching liquidy bubbles get carried away by the breeze… then burst and disappear just like that.
While bubble blowing is a favourite pastime of curious kids, some even suggest it can help adults reduce anxiety.
11. Advice From Your Elders
You’re never too old for words of wisdom from those who’ve been around longer.
There are many lessons you can learn from older people, even if you’re an older person yourself!
12. Stuffed Toys
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being a fully grown adult and cuddling something that doesn’t cuddle back.
We all need our fair share of comfort!
13. 'Crazy' Hair
Whether it’s pink hair dye, pigtails, or a beard on its way to your knees, don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do with your hair.
If you’ve got it, flaunt it!
14. Braces
Crooked teeth? We know just the trick!
It’s never too late to embark on a quest for the perfect smile – and after all, a few awkward years of adult braces are better than a lifetime of bad teeth!
15. The Playground
Swings, trampolines, monkey bars – you name it. If your body’s up for it, then go for it!
And with a new intergenerational playground coming to Perth soon, there’ll be no more age-related excuses not to play.
16. The Zoo
As an adult, you can still enjoy the wonder and excitement of visiting the zoo.
Not only are the animals pretty awesome, the zoo is also a great place to enjoy the fresh air and get your steps up.
Perth Zoo offers discounts for seniors, too!
17. Dating
Our relationships with friends, family and romantic partners all play a role in our wellbeing.
So if you're single, why not mingle? Whether you’re a traditional type or adept with the modern online dating landscape, don’t be shy to put yourself out there – regardless of your age.
18. Dancing
According to CNN, dancing helps improve your memory, balance and coordination as you get older.
So whether it’s the Waltz or the Running Man, don’t just stand there, bust a move! Even if those moves are limited.
19. Travel
While you might be too old for a Contiki tour (they cater for 18-35 year olds), you’re certainly not too old to explore the world.
Some of the most avid travellers are retirees, who after freeing themselves from the shackles of a 9 to 5, wisely spend their days eating foreign cuisines, marvelling over historic ruins and revving up tuk-tuks.
20. Ice Cream Trucks
You’re never too old for Mr Whippy!
Next time the sweet, familiar melody of an ice cream truck enters your eardrums, do your best to beat the neighbours’ kids to the queue.
21. Learning
You can teach old dogs new tricks!
There’s always time to learn something new, upskill or revisit past learnings.
As Bruce Lee once said: “Learning is a constant process of discovery – a process without end.”
At Brightwater, we're all about wellbeing.
We provide home care, residential aged care and retirement living solutions for seniors, as well as support for younger people with complex disabilities.