We often talk about the wisdom, experience, and grace that come with turning 60 and beyond, but we rarely address the simple (and often unexpected) pleasures older folks savor—often in private.
I’ve had a front-row seat to some of these hidden joys thanks to the older adults in my life, from relatives to neighbors who have become close friends over the years.
And I’ve noticed there’s a unique lightness to their smiles when they think no one is watching—like they’re savoring a moment the rest of us might miss.
Let’s pull back the curtain on eight such secret enjoyments. Some might surprise you, while others might make you laugh because, let’s face it, we’ve caught hints of these joys many times.
But in my conversations, older people rarely shout these things from the rooftops. So let’s do it for them.
1. Indulging in “non-productive” hobbies
I know people in their 60s who get totally absorbed in activities that seem—on the surface—“unproductive.” Think coloring books, jigsaw puzzles, painting tiny figurines, or even playing video games.
To an outsider, it might look frivolous, but what they’re really doing is giving themselves permission to enjoy something purely for fun.
They spent decades working, raising kids, paying bills, and constantly being “useful.” Now, they can relish a hobby that doesn’t necessarily lead to a paycheck or a qualification—it’s just for them.
One friend’s grandfather confided in me about his newfound love for puzzle games on his iPad. He seemed almost embarrassed but also excited.
I believe it’s the kind of unburdened joy we often forget to cultivate when we’re busy climbing the career ladder or juggling daily responsibilities.
2. Being unexpectedly tech-savvy
There’s a stereotype that older folks struggle with technology, but let me tell you—a lot of people over 60 secretly get a kick out of proving that stereotype wrong.
My own mother recently learned how to use Instagram Reels and was so proud she could teach me a shortcut or two.
She giggled like a teenager when she discovered you could add music to videos, and she said, “Don’t tell anyone I’m having too much fun doing this!” It’s a small act of rebellion against the assumption that an older generation isn’t “with it.”
According to experts, a growing number of older adults embrace social media platforms and streaming services to stay connected and entertained.
While they might publicly roll their eyes about “all these new gadgets,” many of them are quietly mastering the latest app or device—loving that sense of accomplishment that comes from staying current.
3. Splurging on little luxuries
Many people over 60 have finally reached a stage in life where their finances are more stable or they have fewer big-ticket expenses, like paying for a child’s college or a mortgage.
That means they can enjoy certain little luxuries without feeling too guilty—like having fresh flowers in the house every week, buying the premium brand of coffee, or treating themselves to a fancy gadget.
They may not brag about it, because it can feel self-indulgent, especially if they grew up in a time where thrift was the norm.
Still, they secretly savor these upgrades to daily life. It’s a quiet joy, often followed by a “Well, I’ve earned it!” remark—then a quick glance around to see if anyone heard.
4. Embracing naps without shame
I often envy how older adults can unapologetically take a nap in the middle of the day and not feel the least bit guilty about it. They have no illusions about having to grind 24/7.
They might say, “I’m just resting my eyes,” but they love it. There’s a comfort in knowing their schedule might finally allow them to take a guilt-free rest whenever they feel like it.
And, unsurprisingly, this habit can be incredibly beneficial. Experts like Dr. Sara Mednick have noted in her research that napping can improve memory, mood, and alertness—things we could all use more of, at any age.
5. Enjoying quiet time and solitude
Our culture tends to idealize hustle and bustle. So many of us race around, trying to fit as many social engagements and tasks into one day as humanly possible.
Then I look at my older relatives, who have adopted a calmer pace. They secretly love those peaceful mornings with a cup of tea or that gentle walk around the block without a jam-packed agenda.
When I was younger, I assumed they were missing out on excitement. Now, I see what a gift slow, quiet time can be. A lot of them have told me they wish they’d embraced solitude sooner rather than seeing it as loneliness.
In the words of Stephen Covey, “We see the world, not as it is, but as we are—or as we are conditioned to see it.” Once we realize that solitude can nurture our creativity and mental peace, it becomes something to cherish rather than dread.
Though they might not shout from the rooftops, older adults often savor that gentle silence more than we realize.
6. Reveling in playful mischief
Ever notice how some of the sweetest, most unassuming older folks will occasionally drop a cheeky one-liner or pull a light-hearted prank?
My grandmother once swapped sugar for salt in the shaker just to see if anyone would notice. (Spoiler alert: We did, and she found it hilarious.)
They’ve spent decades playing by the rules—raising families, going to work, being responsible, and holding their tongues. Now, many allow themselves tiny moments of harmless mischief.
It’s not about causing trouble; it’s about reclaiming a playful spirit.
Dale Carnegie once said, “People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” Being over 60 doesn’t exclude anyone from that statement. A sprinkle of silliness, even if it’s discreet, can keep life fresh and fun.
7. Getting nostalgic over “the good old days”
We all love to reminisce from time to time, but people over 60 have a particular fondness for telling stories and re-living cherished memories—often under the radar.
They may poke fun at themselves, calling it a “senior moment” or joke that they’re just living in the past. But deep down, they treasure the reminders of where they’ve been and the path they’ve walked.
Whether it’s pulling out an old vinyl record, flipping through photo albums, or watching classic TV shows from their youth, these are comforting touchstones that bring a quiet, profound joy.
I see it every time I visit my neighbor: he has an entire chest filled with old pictures from trips taken decades ago. He’ll say, “I suppose you don’t care about my old photos,” but the way his eyes light up suggests he hopes I do.
And honestly, I do, because each photograph opens up a piece of wisdom or a life lesson that I never get tired of hearing.
8. Celebrating personal freedoms
Last but definitely not least, many people over 60 secretly love the freedom that comes with shedding others’ expectations. By the time you’ve lived that long, you’ve realized that life is too short to live according to everyone else’s standards.
They can say what’s on their mind with fewer filters. They can choose to pursue a late-life passion—whether it’s starting a small business, learning to cook gourmet meals, or traveling alone—without worrying about what the neighbors or relatives think.
In short, they relish being their most authentic selves.
My aunt decided to dye her hair bright purple on her 65th birthday. She told me it was one of the best decisions she’s ever made because it reminded her she’s allowed to do something “just because.”
She doesn’t advertise how happy this makes her, but trust me, that sparkle in her eyes says everything.
Wrapping up
So there you have it: eight pleasures and pastimes older adults genuinely enjoy but rarely trumpet.
From indulging in “pointless” hobbies to embracing unexpected mischief, these acts of joy are often low-key—tucked away because people over 60 have learned the value of savoring a moment quietly.
They don’t need to prove anything to anyone anymore, and that itself is a wonderful position to be in.
If you’re on the younger side, I hope this serves as a little nudge to celebrate small joys, too—without shame. And if you’re over 60, maybe you’ll recognize one (or all) of these pleasures and realize it’s perfectly fine to enjoy them proudly.
After all, as Sheryl Sandberg has said, “We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change.”
Here at DM News, we’re big believers in taking ownership of your own happiness. So go ahead—relish those naps, indulge in that hobby, savor your well-earned freedoms.
And if anyone asks, tell them you’re just making the most of life. Because you are.
