Why do we expect age to look a certain way? — Cherish How
SEPTEMBER 30 — “How old are you?”It sounds like a simple question. But when it is directed at an adult...
On September 30, a reporter pondered the question of why we expect certain physical attributes to accompany the passage of time. When someone inquires about the age of an adult, especially a woman, the question is often preceded by an apologetic disclaimer, suggesting that age can be a sensitive topic. While some may hesitate or decline to answer, others may respond with humor, such as comparing themselves to a pop star born in the same year.
The number of years lived does not inherently dictate how a person should appear or behave. However, societal expectations often associate certain physical characteristics with aging, such as grey hair, wrinkles, and slower movements. In Malaysia, the term "Warga Emas" is used to refer to older adults, signifying their value and respect. Despite this positive label, the way we view aging does not always align with these sentiments.
Growing older can still be perceived negatively, as a decline, dependency or reduced attractiveness. This may be why some hesitate to reveal their age, fearing the assumptions society may make based on their appearance. An older woman in her sixties, entitled to senior citizen privileges, once experienced discomfort when she took a priority seat on public transport. Passengers and even a train worker exchanged uncomfortable glances due to her youthful appearance.
This incident highlights the discrepancy between our expectations of what an older person should look like and the reality of individual aging. We often associate specific visual cues with age, and when someone does not conform to these stereotypes, we may find them surprising. However, an older person can dye their hair, wear vibrant colors, travel independently, or spend time on social media platforms. These actions do not negate their age.
The question arises: why do we expect age to conform to a particular appearance? It is essential to recognize that a person's age should not determine how we perceive them. The International Day of Older Persons on October 1 reminds us to create a more inclusive society for individuals of all ages. Rather than questioning why someone does not "look their age," we should reflect on why we hold such expectations in the first place.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
