The 65+ generations are those that were already well integrated in society before 1968. They grew up in a society that had strong notions of authority and order, they believed in De Gaulle. The main effect of 1968 was an erosion of authority as a positive value. No longer are people expected to obey.

Sarkozy's discourse insists on the negative effects of 1968 (as is usual in France, the right wing tries to undo the last revolution), and on restoring authority. That's how he appeals to those old voters.

Un roi sans divertissement est un homme plein de misères