If their children’s marriages crumble due to ongoing interference, they may vilify the ex-partner and try to alienate their grandchildren from that parent. Oddly enough, there have been cases where, after a breakup, the narcissist sides with the ex-partner against their own child. They might support and advise the ex-partner, creating a division within the family.
As they grow older, maintaining their fragile, false sense of self becomes increasingly difficult. Their physical strength diminishes, their looks fade, and they can no longer do the things they once could. Reduced sex drive can also make it harder for them to deny their aging. They may spend time reminiscing about their glory days, trying to impress others with past achievements, claiming today’s generation has it easier and that they had to strive harder.
Rather than becoming wiser with age, some narcissists may remain immature, throwing temper tantrums when they don’t get their way. They might become more vitriolic and vindictive, believing they have been unfairly treated or victimized by everyone else. They may frequently dwell on their failed relationships and the times their schemes backfired.
Narcissists often remember perceived wrongs done to them but conveniently forget times when they were selfish or hurtful to others. Some may even forget the vengeance they took on those individuals long ago. Generally, narcissistic people reject responsibility for their behavior and dislike being exposed for their actions, viewing themselves as victims regardless of how they have hurt or exploited others. This destructive streak may still be present, leading them to seek vengeance, which can push away anyone still in their lives.
As they age, narcissists can remain coercive and manipulative, often for different reasons. If they feel lonely or need assistance, they may find it hard to ask directly. Instead, they might resort to schemes to get what they want or need, which can be counterproductive. People may eventually stop offering help or become more adept at saying no. Manipulation can include guilt tripping and shaming, with statements such as, “After all I’ve done for you, I don’t have much time left,” or threats to write people out of their wills if they don’t comply.
Remember, their power and influence decrease as younger generations gain ascendancy, and that often doesn’t sit well with them. They may have spent a lifetime learning how to manipulate and coerce others to maintain some level of power.
This is especially true of covert narcissists, who might escalate their history of mysterious ailments and illnesses. There could be frequent visits to unreceptive doctors, and they may claim that none of the treatments work, portraying themselves as incurable and in constant pain. They may feign bravery around others, even when their grandchildren visit excitedly, masking their discomfort with forced smiles.
What Happens to Those Around Them
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
Leave a Comment