Many common misconceptions about aging have no basis in reality. These myths contribute to a distorted cultural outlook on aging, and they can affect the way seniors approach their golden years. Take a look at some of the most common myths about getting older.
1. Seniors Are Irritable
It’s common to see older adults in TV shows and movies portrayed as grumpy and irritable. While irascible seniors may be a staple of the entertainment industry, they aren’t a reflection of real life. Many seniors maintain positive attitudes, and they’re likely to enjoy healthier, happier lives if they avoid pessimistic thinking.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Brain Function Diminishes with Age
For aging adults who don’t have some form of cognitive impairment, getting older doesn’t inevitably affect the size, capacity, or function of their brains. This myth arose as a result of a study that showed the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for retaining memories, was smaller in older adults than younger people. A shrinking brain is more likely to be caused by stress, not aging, which means older adults need to focus on reducing their anxiety levels if they want to maintain robust cognitive health.
3. Age-Related Issues Are Determined by Genetics
Genetics does contribute to a variety of age-related issues, but hereditary factors aren’t insurmountable. Even if older adults are genetically predisposed to developing certain health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, these predispositions can often be mitigated with healthy lifestyle choices.
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4. All Older Adults Have Brittle Bones
Seniors are susceptible to osteoporosis, which is a condition that causes bones to get weaker, making aging adults more prone to injuries. However, the image of a brittle-boned senior with poor posture is merely a stereotype. Nowadays, with early diagnosis, medication, healthy nutrition, and exercise, osteoporosis is more preventable than ever.
5. Seniors Are Set in Their Ways
Many seniors are open to change, and they’re perfectly capable of quitting bad habits and adopting healthier ones. If doctors prescribe major lifestyle changes such as exercise regimens or restricted diets, seniors and their caregivers shouldn’t be concerned. People in their golden years make positive lifestyle choices every day.
6. Older Adults Aren’t Able to Learn New Things
Just as aging adults can adopt new habits, they can also learn new things. After retiring, many seniors learn new skills, engage in new hobbies, and try things they didn’t have time for during their younger years. Aging adults can learn to play the piano, speak Italian, or paint landscapes, and they shouldn’t be held back by inaccurate stereotypes.
7. Every Senior Experiences Joint Pain
While joint conditions such as arthritis are common among seniors, joint pain isn’t an inevitability. Research shows exercise and a healthy diet can keep the joints limber and pain-free.
Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of home care Phoenix seniors can depend on. To learn about our quality-assured services, give us a call today.
