Misconceptions about aging are everywhere, and they can make us dread getting older or worry about our aging relatives. While aging definitely brings about physical, emotional, and mental changes, the myths aren’t always true.
Physical activity is dangerous for the elderly.
The truth is that physical activity is safe for most seniors. The myth that physical activity should cease as we age is also related to the big myth about aging and weight. Inactivity and weight gain don’t have to be part of aging. In fact, doctors recommend physical activity for seniors. Of course, it’s vital to listen to your body and your doctor! Gentle, low-impact exercise like walking or yoga might be the best option for those with health conditions that make intense cardiovascular activity dangerous. But if you have a clean bill of health, aerobic exercise, strength training, and even sports or exercise-focused video games are effective ways for most seniors to stay healthy and live longer.
Arthritis is inevitable.
Arthritis is not inevitable. Osteoarthritis, which is a chronic condition in which the joints break down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling, is the most common type of arthritis among Americans. According to the CDC, a little over half of those age 75 or older have been diagnosed with it. While more people develop arthritis as they age, it’s not a given. There are lifestyle changes you can make even into your senior years to avoid developing arthritis, such as exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Older people need less sleep.
As with many myths, there’s a kernel of truth to this one. Older adults usually need about 30 to 60 minutes less sleep than younger people. Seven to nine hours of sleep is ideal for good physical and mental health for anyone, seniors included. Health conditions and certain medications might make sleep more difficult and may be why many older adults tend to wake up early. This compels some people to make up for lost nighttime sleep with a nap during the day. So, the question isn’t so much “do seniors require less sleep?” as “what prevents seniors from getting enough sleep?”
Falls are a normal part of aging.
Falls are not a normal part of aging, and most can be prevented. According to the National Council on Aging, there are a few simple things you can do to prevent falls:
- Have your vision checked.
- Manage your medications and be aware of any that cause dizziness.
- Survey your home to reduce tripping hazards.
- Exercise, including performing exercises to improve strength and balance.
Older people are lonely and isolated.
Some seniors experience loneliness as their social circles shrink. It may be difficult to make friends after retiring to a new community, or physical limitations may lessen social opportunities. But according to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, three-quarters of older adults are not socially isolated, and two-thirds don’t feel lonely. For those who are experiencing loneliness or isolation, home care, companion care, and virtual care options such as our Total Care Solutions services are additional ways to stave off loneliness.
The elderly are less happy than their younger counterparts.
Older people are happier. Studies have shown that anxiety, stress, depression, and anger all decrease as we age. Psychology Today notes that characteristics such as wisdom, empathy, gratitude, and resilience all increase with age, and this could be why the elderly are happier.
It’s hard for older people to learn new things.
While it’s true that it can take a little longer for some older people to process information, that doesn’t mean that older people can’t learn new things. It might require patience, motivation, and tenacity, but it’s far from impossible. And, learning new things can support mental and cognitive skills as we age.
Depression is normal for the elderly.
Depression is a fact of life for many Americans, but it’s not an inevitable part of growing older. According to the CDC, the incidence of depression in older adults ranges from 5% for those living in the general community to 13.5% for those who require home health care. The most common causes are dealing with chronic health issues, chronic pain, reduced mobility, financial stress, and loneliness, which is another instance in which companion care can help.
Dementia is inevitable.
Dementia and memory problems are not inevitable. Approximately 10% of people 70 or older have dementia. And, according to the CDC, 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed if people communicate with their doctors as soon as they become concerned.
Seniors aren’t safe drivers.
Medical conditions and cognitive decline can affect some seniors’ ability to drive, but this isn’t true for all seniors. In fact, there were 48 million licensed drivers over the age of 65 in 2020, and most were perfectly capable of driving safely. However, vision impairment, general physical health, medications, and reaction times can all affect how safe it is for a specific person to drive. It’s important to honestly self-evaluate and discuss your desire to drive with a doctor or other health professional. They can make suggestions, evaluate your medications, and give you guidance about whether you should drive or not.
Most seniors end up in nursing homes.
Less than 5% of people over the age of 65 live in a nursing home, with most aging in place or living with family members.
Age in Place with Support from Homewatch CareGivers
Many aging myths are just that: myths. Certain so-called “facts” of aging are not inevitable, and there are many aspects of growing older that are within our control. Staying healthy, remaining active, making connections with others, continuing to learn new things, and communicating with your doctor can all go a long way toward aging well and in the comfort of your home.
If you’d like to continue to age in place, contact your local Homewatch CareGivers to learn more about how we can support you with home care. Get in touch with us online or call 888-404-5191 for more information.
