How to Avoid Being a Sour Senior Citizen

Nobody likes being around a sourpuss. Certainly, older people deserve some slack, in this regard, but at the end of the day, people will avoid them if they are cranky. If you've become sour in your later years, here are ways to overcome that problem to once again become a "people magnet."

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Try to determine why you approach life so negatively. Is it a matter of you simply having a bad day, or is it the result of something more serious? Only you can determine the cause of you being continually cross.
2. Work at seeing that life has become much different than in the good old days. The pace has quickened and many things today are not conducive to those of advancing age. The fast pace of life, people's rudeness, the cost of things today, and other day-to-day elements of life that are more suited to younger, fitter people instead of older persons who require more time and patience to react could be some of the reasons for you acting as you do.
3. Decide if depression is the cause of your approaching things so negatively. Many older people are depressed about being sick, or the prospect of becoming sick. Some are depressed that their life is coming to an end and they feel sad over this. Seek help if you are plagued by depression.
4. Determine if loneliness is your problem. It's sad to see all of your friends die around you, including your spouse. It's not easy to make new friends and it's not even interesting to become new friends with someone who may die next week.
5. Decide if finances are clouding your relationship with others. Most seniors are on a very limited budget, and the lack of money causes stress and worry. Do whatever may be necessary to keep finances from letting you enjoy the best years of your life.

Tips & Warnings

• Many of the reasons for someone turning negative as they age stem from some physical ailment. See your doctor at least once each year for a complete check-up.
• Eliminate the negatives. Stop smoking, drink less and pay closer attention to your diet. Above all, routinely exercise to stay trim and in shape.