The groups or communities we are part of  at any given point in time, usually have an accepted individual behavior expectation, this is the social norm.

Whatever your cutural group, whether all encompassing like a country or large organization to a micro community, (e.g., family, neighbors, friends) usually we quickly aquire and practice the expected behaviours.

Social norms and Age

I have personally observed, both in myself and others that the motivation to adhere to social norms diminishes with age.  This feeds the stereotype, “ they are just a cranky oldster, it’s to be expected”.

In point of fact the desire to conform is motivated to a large degree by the need for acceptance.  The concept of self actualization includes being a happy group member.

Self actualization is a phychologists way of describing the search for a state of maximum personal comfort, that is inner peace.  We all need and desire it and low levels of self actualization can lead to undesirable behaviours.

The drive for self actualization is typically a lifelong journey.  When not achieved, whether through acting out, or trending inward the results can be considered anti-social.

Back to Aging

As we get older most of us have accepted our state of belonging, that which we have achieved over time and are comfortable with the status-quo. Our drive for self actualization is lessened.

In the majority of cases,  changing your circumstances, gaining additional acceptance and the associated drive to do so simply wains with age.

This does not translate to old people not caring how they are percieved but rather not needing to care.  They can easily practice social norms and most will do so on the drop of a dime if provided the right motivation.