What It's Like to Have Parents Over 60

Parents who have children late in life, such as those who are over 60, often face unique challenges. This experience tells the story of having a father who was 60 and a mother who was 36 when their only child was born. This article delves into the unique dynamics and perspectives of such a relationship, focusing on the social, emotional, and developmental aspects.

The Challenges of a Parental Age Gap

Being the child of parents over 60 comes with its own set of challenges. Not only do they have different life experiences and worldviews, but they may also struggle to relate to modern social norms and concepts. The father, born in 1917, and the mother, born in 1926, faced their own set of hardships, from the Great Depression to World War II, which significantly shaped their worldview.

While their values were excellent, their experiences during the Depression instilled a scarcity mindset, leading to penurious frugality and an inability to take risks. Their children, born much later, inherited their parents' strong values but also had to navigate a world with different social norms and expectations.

Life Through the Eyes of a Late-Born Parent

The father, the oldest of 13 siblings, took on the mantle of responsibility at a young age. He served in World War II, which left a profound impact on him, often plagued by nightmares and the fear of German invasion. The mother, a seamstress who sewed bomber jackets, spent her life ensuring the family's stability, making sacrifices for her children.

Both parents instilled a strong sense of patriotism and religious values in their children, which manifested in daily routines such as attending church and saluting the flag. However, their traditional views on modesty and behavior often clashed with their children's aspirations for modern social graces and personal development.

Childhood Memories and Experiences

Life as a child in this household was marked by strict discipline and a heavy workload. Chores, paper routes, and laboring on weekend jobs were common. The father's hard work ethic was reflected in the nature of the jobs his children were given, offering neither large rewards nor much in the way of leisure.

Despite the challenges, there were also positive aspects. The family walked to school daily, fostering a strong bond with their mother and a sense of community. The space program was a source of national pride, witnessed through the dramatic news of President Kennedy's assassination, an event that left a lasting impression on all family members.

Generational Differences in Social Norms

The late-born parents struggled to adjust to the changing world, often clashing with their children over modern social norms and values. Social graces, modern media, and even sexuality were topics where the generational gap was particularly pronounced. The parents' strict discipline and conservative values meant that they often could not offer the guidance their children needed to navigate the complexities of social interactions.

Their strict upbringing and focus on hard work sometimes left their children feeling resentful or misunderstood. Despite this, the children were raised to be responsible, hardworking, and respectful individuals, thanks in large part to their parents' unwavering values and the emotional support they provided.

Conclusion

Growing up with parents over 60 is a unique experience that challenges both the parents and the children. While the generational gap can cause misunderstandings and conflicts, it also fosters resilience and a strong work ethic. Despite the hardships, this dynamic often results in children who are well-prepared for the real world, grounded in their values, and able to navigate the complexities of modern society with resilience and strength.