An American reveals what surprised him most about Spanish retirees: “Why can’t they be like that in the U.S.?”

“What’s going on with Spanish grandparents?” That’s more or less the question posed by a young American in a TikTok video that’s quickly gained traction. With a mix of disbelief and genuine admiration, he recounts how the manners, kindness and warmth of elderly people in Spain have left him speechless.

Retirees in Spain have something else

“Spanish elders, those around 70 years old, are probably the kindest older people I’ve ever met,” he begins. He then goes on to describe a series of small, everyday moments that, when taken together, have made him rethink his entire experience of older generations – at least compared to what he’s known back home.

One of those moments took place on a train: he was standing, and it was the elderly who offered him a seat. Another happened outside a restaurant, where someone held the door open for him from over 60 meters away. “It makes no sense,” he says, laughing. “They’re so small, so fragile, they walk so slowly… and they’re just so sweet.”

Something you don’t find in the US

But what strikes him most is their ability to be empathetic: “They know I’m not Spanish, that I don’t speak the language – and still, they try to speak to me in English.” His conclusion is simple, and delivered without a trace of sarcasm: “Why can’t grandparents in America be this nice?”

The video, which has already racked up thousands of views, has clearly hit a nerve. Many users have responded by sharing similar stories of how thoughtful and approachable Spanish seniors can be, while others have reflected on the differences in how aging is experienced – and treated – across cultures, from the West to the East.

For now, at least in the eyes of this young American, Spain’s older generation enjoys a glowingly positive reputation – one that, according to many, seems to be well deserved.

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