"Old" Polish people - are they doomed to lead inactive lives?

In Poland people over 60 are considered "old" and the only thing they are expected to do is to watch TV or lay in bed. While in the US or other "Western" countries many people start a new life after 60, work full-time, are active in many areas. What's up with that? Are Polish grandmas and grandpas doomed to end their active lives at this age? Or maybe Poles grow old faster than other nations.

I know some will tell "my grandma is 80 old and is in a great shape". But the point is - does the older Polish generation actively participate in the social life?

Hi Beksa,

Please remember that the generation in Poland that are now in their 50's and 60's was born right after World War II and have had real hard lives. I think our generation (their children) and the ones after us will have more of a chance to actually enjoy their lives and retirement. Also, many of them are still not retired because they simply cannot afford to do so. I'm sure if the money and free time existed they would do much more than "just sit on the couch and watch TV". A lot of them are just simply trying to survive.

well put; people don't appreciate what it might have been like living in the post war era of communist poland - I only know from information that I've heard from relatives who have lived through it. The concept of starting a new life, a new career even, travelling and having lots of free time to enjoy life (after 60 or so) must be an unheard of phenomenon for most poles of that age group. In the west, 60 is "the new 40" and is definitely NOT considered "old".....in these terms, old age might start in their mid 70's if not later.

Another stupid stereotype. You should see my polish grandma. She lives in Poland and she has just returned from trip to Jerusalem, Egypt, Israel, and Libya. Grandpa every month drives to polish seacoast to watch his small business and for “fresh air and view of nice girls”. They both are way over 60 years old, so don’t believe in stupid stereotypes. Some people maybe agree to lie down in bed and wait for death, but not my grandparents. And trust me, in States is all the same.

No doubts about it.

My grandma is 82 and belongs to a tap dancing studio :)

...in US :)

In PL my gf babca is always outside working to keep busy. If the person is depressed, that's when they sit and do nothing waiting to die. Sad. A strong family shouldn't let them do this.

well it depends. its all in the attitude you now. my grandfather has good retirement benefits and a free apartment (my mother's) so he has enough money and time. He just complains and lies in bed and watches TV. You don't always have to have money to engage in extra-curricular activities. There is so much to do - join veteran's clubs, volunteer, help the poor, pass on knowledge and experience to younger generations, be social... etc etc etc. But it's much easier to sit at home and watch tv.

BUT my great aunt who was frail and in her 80's when she died was one of the most active and intellectual sober people I have ever met. It jsut depends on your attitude and your willingness to stay current and acive and present in your life.