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50 Things People In Their 40s Do That Make Absolutely Zero Sense To Anyone Younger (New Pics)
40 is the new 30—we’ve all heard that at some point. But let’s be real: aging comes with its own share of hilarious quirks and downright unexplainable habits.
Today, we’ve rounded up some painfully relatable posts that perfectly capture the strange things everyone over 40 does, even if they swear they don’t. From random grunts while standing up to having a favorite grocery store aisle, it’s all part of the charm. Get ready to nod along, cringe in recognition, or laugh at your parents (and maybe yourself).
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
April Pickett 5 months ago
Yes, there will be mysterious ailments, and more as you get older. The difference is that those ailments are new and frightening in your 40s. When you get older, you still get mysterious ailments, but they won't matter as much.
Linda Johnson 5 months ago
and the Universe will continue to dole out more and more challenges to your health and patience!!!
RELATED:
#2
Margaret Wartime 5 months ago
I worked in a grocery store when I was 17. I thought the music sucked. I’m in my 30s now and I kinda wish I had that playlist 😂 IIRC there was a lot of CCR
Linda Johnson 5 months ago
yep...hearing great stuff from the 60's, 70's.....not just crazy whining voices
#3
Billo66 5 months ago
Pink Floyd - Time - "One day you'll find 10 years have got behind you. No one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun." I feel it to the core.
Margaret Wartime 5 months ago
My bf told me a few years ago that he struggles with that song because it really hits him. I skip it every time it comes on I. The car because I don’t want him to feel sad, but I’m a year older than him and I’m afraid to tell him how much it hits me too 😅 we both just avoid that song because the feels be really feelin
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Jane Hower 5 months ago
Life is like a roll of toilet paper - the closer you get to the end the faster it goes!!!
Linda Johnson 5 months ago
WHY???? does it go so much faster after 45?? Like they say...It's downhill from there, I guess.....
No matter your age, prioritizing your health is essential, but once you hit your 40s, it becomes even more critical. This decade is when subtle health issues can start developing without obvious symptoms, so regular screenings help catch problems early. These routine checks act as preventative measures to protect your future well-being, allowing you to address concerns before they escalate. Scheduling timely appointments can significantly reduce the risk of chronic conditions, making it easier to maintain your quality of life.
Routine checkups include measuring blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and other vital metrics that help detect early warning signs. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, often preventing complications. These visits also provide a chance to discuss lifestyle habits and get personalized advice to maintain or improve your health.
#4
JB 5 months ago
Already lost count of how many times I “rolled over in my sleep and when I woke up I can’t look left or right”; my neck locks up at least twice a year.
L.V 5 months ago
And the only solution is to go back to sleep, and hope the new position will help rather than making it worse
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Jane Hower 5 months ago
You have to get a pillow that is 'shapeable' so that you can bunch it up under your head to keep it from bending down to the shoulder. The "MY PILLOW" is made up of many small pieces of memory foam making it easier to 'bunch up', but easily reformed AND is washable.
Tim Douglass 5 months ago
This last month, in my mid-60s, has featured the return of my rotator cuff injury from 1980. Been fine up 'til now, then boom!
#5
Sinead Kenny 5 months ago
45f and just got diagnosed with perimenapause, mother has passed and dad (72) just got diagnosed with cancer. So true 👍 keep plodding on lady, it's all we can do xx
Katherine Forest 5 months ago
Ha ha! I don't have either. Take that, little miss poor life choices....
tee-lena 5 months ago
I feel this in regards to kids. Fortunately I still have mom.
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#6
Margaret Wartime 5 months ago
My coworker says everything is “crazy work.” “Wow that’s crazy work, omg that’s crazy work.” I thought it was just a cute quirky thing he did until I watched a few tiktok videos - it’s a whole Gen Z phrase, lots of his generation does it 😂 made me feel old. (Love you Gen Z!)
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Linda Johnson 5 months ago
oh my gosh....true story !!!!!!!!! and they talk so fast....they all have adhd !!
Dental health is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being, especially after 40. Regular dental exams help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral infections that can have far-reaching effects. Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease and other systemic conditions, so maintaining a healthy mouth benefits your entire body. Protecting your smile isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a key part of keeping your body healthy and functional as you age.
#7
CCLoos 5 months ago
At some point my mom said she was going to start lying about her age by saying she was much older than she was. Then people would say, "Wow! You look great!"
Auntriarch 5 months ago
She's not wrong. Ever since I turned 65 I've been saying I'm "nearly 70".
Load More Replies... Linda Johnson 5 months ago
well...you know what the saying is: Getting Old Ain't For Sissies !@!!!!!
#8
WubiDubi 5 months ago (edited)
The ones who do triathlons need to chill. I'd get hit by a car on the bike, have cramps and nearly drown in the swim and ruin my hamstrings on the run.
Lady Eowyn 5 months ago
In my 40s I was riding horses in competitions that including galloping cross-country over obstacles.
#9
Auntriarch 5 months ago
That's me. If Frank Whittle had seen me sneezing whilst sat on a chair with castors, he'd have invented jet propulsion a lot sooner
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Uncle Panda 5 months ago (edited)
I can make the cat vaporize with a loud sneeze. All that remains are a few hairs hanging in the air.
Jumping Jellyfishes 5 months ago
Oh! This is actually a common thing? I thought my hubby was the only one doing this.
detective miller's hat 5 months ago
My little brother's sneezes are now almost at dad-level sneeze.
Tom Brincefield 5 months ago
When I worked in a factory and sneezed, the people running the loud machines with earplugs in would all stop and look to see what the noise was.
Skeeter 5 months ago
I am sitting here beside a 69yo man who is scraping his bowl of whatever, fruit, yogurt, ice cream, cereal, like a GD Toddler!! I will usually leave the room till he finishes. But sometimes I just want to finish my ice cream. So I suffer in silence. I would like to take the GD spoon and scrape his GD eye balls out with it, but it would do no good. He would forget and start back at it the next day. Oh yea, and the sneezing thing is real too.
Vision tends to change as we get older, with many people over 40 experiencing difficulty focusing on close objects or developing eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. Comprehensive eye exams can detect these issues early, allowing for timely treatment or corrective measures like prescription glasses. Detecting eye diseases early can prevent vision loss and maintain your quality of life.
#10
detective miller's hat 5 months ago
SAME. And I swear it happened overnight, like I just woke up one day with neck pain and now it's like that every day.
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Auntriarch 5 months ago
And I take it on holiday with me. Nothing to do with hygiene, just comfort
#11
Lotekguy 5 months ago (edited)
How is it possible that anyone still doesn't know when they can make a right turn at a red light???? And how do so many of them wind up in front of me in that lane?
Debbie 5 months ago
Right turn at a red light isn't common here. Just relax, think of them as new to the area, of a sweet old person still being independent and taking their time. Of maybe someone has something very precious in their car and wants to take no chances. Maybe it could be your own sweet parents. I tell myself all these things and guess what.. it doesn't help : /
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Scott Clemens 5 months ago
The way I talk about the drivers in vehicles around me is disturbing.
Reemerger 5 months ago
I just imagine everyone does it. With closed windows it's like the cone of silence.
Load More Replies... #12
Cholesterol levels typically start to rise in your 40s, increasing the risk of heart disease if left unmanaged. Routine blood tests help monitor LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. Knowing your numbers allows you and your doctor to make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and possible medication to keep your heart healthy. Lifestyle changes such as reducing saturated fats, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking can significantly improve cholesterol profiles. Monitoring cholesterol regularly is a simple step to lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
#13
#14
#15
Uncle Panda 5 months ago
If that happened to me, the cause would be the least of my questions.
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Cydney Golden 5 months ago
Never pee standing up or hovering. Do not go just in case. Always empty your bladder as much as possible when you do go. Trust me on this...
Colorectal cancer screening is recommended starting at age 45 or earlier for those with risk factors. There are multiple screening options, including stool-based tests (FOBT, FIT), stool DNA tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography, and colonoscopy. These screenings help detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers when treatment is most effective. The frequency and type of screening depend on your risk profile and test results. While some methods may feel uncomfortable or inconvenient, the benefits of early detection far outweigh the drawbacks.
#16
#17
Chihuahua Mama 6 months ago
Sleeping also makes you tired. I'm not 40 yet, but I'm always tired
Holly Allen 6 months ago
I have taken naps in my dreams. I think I have achieved a new level.
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Little Bit 5 months ago
I go to bed feeling exhausted, I wake up feeling exhausted, I feel exhausted all day long. I go to bed feeling exhausted, I wake up feeling exhausted...
#18
For women, the 40s often bring hormonal changes that can impact various aspects of health, including the onset of perimenopause and menopause. Regular checkups during this period are important for managing symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and bone density loss. Staying proactive about your health during this transition supports your long-term well-being and quality of life.
#19
Uncle Panda 5 months ago (edited)
By 50, you should be well on your stack of friends and family's self-published books you are never going to read.
#20
Duane Ringlein 5 months ago
I used to say that the only time I ever wore my suits or jackets was to weddings and funerals, Now it is just for funerals.
Michael Largey 5 months ago
If you don't go to other people's funerals, they won't come to yours.
#21
Cervical cancer screening remains critical for women aged 30 to 65. Guidelines recommend Pap tests every three years, HPV tests every five years, or co-testing (both) every five years. These screenings detect precancerous changes in cervical cells caused by HPV, enabling early treatment to prevent cervical cancer. Staying on schedule with these tests dramatically reduces the risk of developing invasive cancer. Despite occasional discomfort or embarrassment, regular cervical screening is a vital preventive health measure. Prioritize these appointments to protect yourself and maintain control over your reproductive health.
#23
WubiDubi 5 months ago
There are now two age categories.born in 19xx (good to buy alcohol), and born in 20xx. It's brutal.
Geoffrey Scott 5 months ago
I always say, when buying my vape cartridges (they ask you in Michigan, some even need to see your ID) "birthdate?" "08/13/2002" (I am 62).."hey I'm legal!"
Load More Replies... Nota Robot 5 months ago
Interns and new hires keep getting younger all the time. The day that they put a toddler in charge over me is rapidly approaching.
#24
Breast cancer screening, including mammograms, is strongly recommended for women starting in their 40s. Early detection of breast cancer through regular screening significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Mammograms can identify lumps or abnormalities before they become palpable or symptomatic. Discuss with your healthcare provider the appropriate timing and frequency of mammograms based on your personal and family medical history. While the procedure might be mildly uncomfortable, the peace of mind it offers is invaluable.
#25
#26
Robert Millar 5 months ago
I have a nice Xerox printer that I got for a song. Unfortunately, the four toner cartridges cost an opera.
#27
Andie 5 months ago
My husband and I stood and watched the new washer wash the first load of clothes. For the entire cycle.
April Pickett 5 months ago
I did that. I sat on the floor and watched my front load washer wash my clothes.
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Bone health becomes increasingly important as estrogen levels decline during and after menopause, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Bone density tests measure bone strength and help identify those at risk for fractures. Maintaining strong bones involves adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol. Early detection of bone loss allows for timely interventions, including lifestyle modifications and medications if needed. Prioritizing bone health helps preserve mobility and independence as you age. Think of it as building a sturdy foundation to support an active, healthy life well into your golden years.
Well, taking extra care of your health isn’t the only adventure waiting for you in your 40s. These posts prove that hitting this milestone comes with its own hilarious quirks, unexpected habits, and moments that make you wonder, “When did I become that person?” Which one of these made you laugh, nod in agreement, or facepalm at how true it is? Let us know your favorite in the comments below, we promise not to judge (we’re probably doing it too)!
#28
Child of the Stars 5 months ago
Because I'm prone to dropping my phone. I have a screen protector too, but it's just another level of protection.
Purple light 5 months ago
51 here and no book cover here, I'm always holding my phone in my hand. Gotta catch those Pokémon 😂
WubiDubi 5 months ago
Because they, um we, still have bank and other cards. Hearing that kids now have zero cards is rough..
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
Right up until they drop their phone with all the cards stored on it... I always keep my cards and phone separate, and on top of that my oyster card is also separate. I can lose 2 out of 3 and still get home.
Load More Replies... KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
We do not. But since you ask, because you can store cards and receipts in them too.
Cerridwn d'Wyse 5 months ago
No wouldn't own one I think they're butt ugly no offense to those of you who do
#29
Auntriarch 5 months ago
Nothing at the moment. I expect it's saving up for next week when I'm on holiday
tee-lena 5 months ago
My head.migraine. so to forget about the pain I'm blasting country on YouTube
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
Once I discovered you can take 400mg ibuprofen with 1000mg paracetomol and a baby aspirin (75mg) together, migraines have become more manageable. And before I get called a j****e, this came from a neurologist because I hate codeine and triptans...
Load More Replies... KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
I'll rephrase... my ears hurt the least. And my belly button. That's about it.
#30
#31
L.V 5 months ago
Over 40 is just the age my ID and my body are trying to convince me I am. My brain knows I'm 25, occasionally 15... Unless it's after 8pm, in which case grandma mode is on.
zububonsai 5 months ago (edited)
Yeah, it's flattering but not really helpful when my GP (an extremely fit 47 himself) tells me (F, 46): "You have the liver vitals of an 20 year old teetotaler, and the heart of an 35 y.o. male pro athlete." ...when my bones and back feel like 70 or 80.... 🫣🤕👵🏻
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Earonn - 5 months ago
Don't feel bad about your age. What's wrong with being over 30, over 40, over 50, over 60? That you didn't had a deadly accident or illness so far? Would you prefer to have died at your peak age? WTF? Being old is no sin, and these days it's much more pleasant than even a few decades ago!
#32
B.M. 5 months ago
No, Just the opposite: there are people who want to buy alcohol, show their identity card and the birth years starts with a "2". And they still get the bottle!!!!! Unbelievable, even after a few years now! And people born around my birthday looking so very old ... what did they so that the aged so early?
Child of the Stars 5 months ago
One of the security guards at my work is 21. I was 21 when he was born. I had a mini existential crisis when I realized I'm old enough to be the parent of an adult who can legally drink alcohol 😳
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Jeff Peiffer 5 months ago
Worse is when you have to pick your birthday and the year is a scrolling list where you're like.... "10 minutes later, I found it!"
Reemerger 5 months ago
Some make you scroll back through each individual month. it actually takes minutes to get to 1975.
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KrazyChiMama 5 months ago
I only get vertigo when I have to do the drop down bar and scroll WAY down to my year! :D
#33
#34
tee-lena 5 months ago
Crocs and UGGs.also no regrets. Polo isn't bad either.i keep finding them at Ross
Load More Replies... Geoffrey Scott 5 months ago
See....I used to take c**p for the white New Balances. Now Skechers?
WubiDubi 5 months ago
Sketchers bought the CAT shoes design I've had many pairs of over the years. So I am pretending they are still CAT. Footprints give me away though....
#35
Geoffrey Scott 5 months ago
The Bluetooth thing STILL messes with me... "mumbling"..."What?...oh". See the Bluetooth earpiece.
Load More Replies... KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
That is not us, thanks. This is more yoof. Also facetiming everywher.
#37
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
Yeah, and if you are already carrying a ruptured calcaneal, get a walking stick. I have hypermobile joints, apparently I will be in that category that takes up to 6 months to heal because I also live on the most uneven street in London - I am convinced!!!
#38
#39
#41
Nota Robot 5 months ago
Going out partying nowadays requires taking an afternoon nap in advance as well as two days recovering after. Going out everyday? No thanks!
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
Many of my favourite DJs aged with me but won't hang up the headphones so now they start day parties at 2pm, which suits us all. 😄
Load More Replies... Reemerger 5 months ago
Went to dinner with some friends in their 30s and 40s in Friday. Towards the end they were planning going out and partying. This was so far out of my (50) scope of how I intended to spend the rest of my evening, it was unreal. To them it was self-evident. To me it was completely out of the realm of possibility.
#42
Jeff Peiffer 5 months ago
When I worked in an office I literally warned people that toucking my screen could cost them a finger.
HeavyMetalHeart 5 months ago
I had a boss who did this and it drove me crazy! Constant greasy fingerprints on my screen!
#43
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
It's funny because it's true. Comedy being politicised instead of taken at face value, people being cancelled, etc.
#44
#45
HeavyMetalHeart 5 months ago
Not me, because I usually can’t remember the name of the street it was on.
#46
Jeff Peiffer 5 months ago
I used to work networking support and I had a favorite, reliable, computer that I ended up giving the hostname "pong". So whenever anyone would call in and talk about having network problems, I would always start my diagnosis with, "can you ping pong?"
Stephanie Fay 5 months ago (edited)
Is anyone else super annoyed at the fact that ppl are prescribing the term "boomer" to ppl who are younger than actual boomers? Boomers are in their late 70's by now. ??
Dee 5 months ago (edited)
Extremely annoyed. Like...you are seriously getting an insult wrong/ using ..to you...random words and don't even know what the (abbriviated) term means.
Load More Replies... Cerridwn d'Wyse 5 months ago
Back when you did ping computers and you could have a response to it that was verbal mine said and I quote ooo ping me again I'm starting to like it
#47
#48
Anthony Elmore 5 months ago
I dont 'have a receding hairline. I have a white hair streak similar to rogue from X Men. And I mean bone white. I'm not even old enough to have grey hair. My body's pigmentation just says "You can have a cinnamon swirl pattern on your stomach or a single hair color. Not both." and of course I choose the cinnamon swirl pattern because obviously.
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
I always had two lighter blonde streaks on the side, these are now grey. I too am an X-person.
Load More Replies... #49
nottheactualphoto 5 months ago
The sound is how I know that anything happened. Especially if I don't have the phone on my person at that instant.
Stephanie Fay 5 months ago (edited)
My ring tone is the "old phone". Anything else feels wrong.
Extinct Animal 5 months ago
If my phone doesn't scream at me when I get a message or call then you better believe that it may well take me weeks to get back to you cause I won't look at my phone otherwise...Hell I broke the screen on my phone over 2 weeks ago and just threw it in a drawer and haven't bothered getting it fixed yet.
#50
Geoffrey Scott 5 months ago
In MY case, I don't know how to italicize on a keyboard.
Load More Replies... #51
Child of the Stars 5 months ago
I can't speak for anyone else, but I've always done this. Mostly because my vision is complete s.hite.
#52
Chihuahua Mama 6 months ago
While most tastes are decreased while on a plane (something to do with altitude or air pressure), Umami flavours are more pronounced, so things like tomato juice taste better
Marissa Voleta 5 months ago
Tempting, but a bad idea because TJ has TONS of sodium and you will deplane without your ankles and rings fused to your fingers...for a couple days...
#54
Nota Robot 5 months ago (edited)
Wut? I'm too old for that type of lingo. Any young 'un here willing to translate?
#55
#56
WalterWhiteSavannah 5 months ago
Do these people even know anyone over 40? Just hit 43 and i refuse to call anyone for any reason or answer any calls. Or take my phone off silent. If it can't be said via text it probly doesn't need saying at all afaic.
Little Bit 5 months ago
I don't. I'm 47 and loathe phone calls. Give me an email or text any day of the week.
#58
#59
WalterWhiteSavannah 5 months ago (edited)
Again... over 40 and it is a grave sin to ever swipe through peoples camera roll. I'm showing you a pic of my cat, cherish it and don't swipe a d**n thing.
KatSaidWhat 5 months ago
This is not an age thing, this is a nosyasfuck thing. They see what they see at their own risk.
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What do you think ?
Annik Perrot 5 months ago
Nah, enjoy your 40s, people. And your 50s, 60s, and even 70s. There's always something to enjoy, if only (I'm 70) the fact that you don't give a dàmn what other people may think about you. Just live your life, as fully as you can.
Purple light 5 months ago
So many don't apply to me and I'm 51. I don't call but text, the sound on my phone is off. Maybe being an introvert does make you young?
Lady Eowyn 5 months ago
These are all stupid. My 30s and 40s were the most active of my life. I'm 70. Almost none of these apply to me. Granted, I got disgusted partway through and didn't read them all.
Little Bit 5 months ago
Welcome to your 40s, where teachers and police officers don't look a day over 17.
Hello_my_name_is_Genevieve 5 months ago
My father died at 42. I'm now 48. I always saw getting older as a privilege.
marianne eliza 5 months ago
It gets worse. Every little boo-boo, strain, sprain, tear, and whatever else will resurface. You may have forgotten and walked off the injury, but your body has been waiting to get back at you.
Annik Perrot 5 months ago
Nah, enjoy your 40s, people. And your 50s, 60s, and even 70s. There's always something to enjoy, if only (I'm 70) the fact that you don't give a dàmn what other people may think about you. Just live your life, as fully as you can.
Purple light 5 months ago
So many don't apply to me and I'm 51. I don't call but text, the sound on my phone is off. Maybe being an introvert does make you young?
Lady Eowyn 5 months ago
These are all stupid. My 30s and 40s were the most active of my life. I'm 70. Almost none of these apply to me. Granted, I got disgusted partway through and didn't read them all.
Little Bit 5 months ago
Welcome to your 40s, where teachers and police officers don't look a day over 17.
Hello_my_name_is_Genevieve 5 months ago
My father died at 42. I'm now 48. I always saw getting older as a privilege.
marianne eliza 5 months ago
It gets worse. Every little boo-boo, strain, sprain, tear, and whatever else will resurface. You may have forgotten and walked off the injury, but your body has been waiting to get back at you.
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