Ask HN: Old hackers, what's it like there?

3 points by daryllxd 8 years ago | 2 comments

I'm looking to hear stories from old (completely subjective and I hope not an impolitically correct term, I'm not from the US) programmers/hackers. Did you transition out of programming at some point or do you still find time a few days a month to code? I personally would like to not quit coding when I grow older, I still want the ability to create my own tools/systems for me or other people to use. But life changes so I can't guarantee things. Any answer is okay, I would just like to hear some learnings/stories, because I don't know a programmer over 40 in real life.

oldmancoyote 8 years ago |

I'm 71. I program several hours every day for my own purposes. I'm a little slower, I make more mistakes, it's more difficult to get a broad grasp of an issue, and I tire after a few hours (no more 18 hour marathons). Still, I feel that I am effective and creative. I'm fortunate that people in my family do tend to age slowly. Others may find this harder.

My current software project may be my last. I plan to spend more time writing and socializing. These are interest that I have forgone in pursuit of programming. If you plan to continue programming, great! But, I believe it's best to pursue diverse interests in your career and private life.

daryllxd 8 years ago | |

Hello, thank you for replying! That's so great to hear. Yes, I have other interests (hiking, cycling, travelling, recently writing/journaling). They don't pay the bills though, hehe.