Myths about aging are so widespread that most people – including older adults – assume they are true. The fact is, growing older does not have to mean losing physical or mental fitness. But believing you will decline as you age actually makes it more likely to happen. Conversely, having positive perceptions about aging is linked to a longer lifespan.
Our culture is filled with vibrant mature adults who show that age is nothing but a number. Examples include actors James Earl Jones, 91, and Samuel L. Jackson, 73. Fitness trainer, Ernestine Shepherd, 85, was named the world’s oldest bodybuilder. News correspondent Bill Whitaker, 70, reports for “60 Minutes.” Actress Rita Moreno, 90, was recently cast in a remake of “West Side Story,” 60 years after the original film brought her fame.
Here are the top 10 myths about aging.
This is untrue. While older adults may have more trouble multitasking, they also have a lifetime of experience and more extensive vocabularies than younger adults. Learning new skills benefits mature adults by stimulating the brain and helping to improve memory.
The American Psychological Association reports that dementia is not a normal part of aging. About 5% of adults between the ages of 71 and 79 are affected. The number is higher – 37% – for adults above age 90. To stay sharp, stimulate your brain as you age. Try new activities like reading, painting, and music or play games like sudoku or chess.
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Much of the physical decline people blame on aging is actually caused by lack of exercise. Physical activity is good for your mind and body. Aerobic exercise helps you manage chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Low-impact activities like walking, golfing or biking help improve your health and maintain your independence.
Life changes, such as losing a spouse or living alone, can lead older adults to feel depression, anxiety and sadness. But while these feelings are a reaction to circumstances, they are not caused by aging. Studies show that depression is less common in older adults than in younger adults. Mature adults benefit from long-term friendships and a lifetime of memories. Engaging with others through family connections, social activities or volunteering reduces the risk of becoming depressed.
Older adults generally go to bed earlier and wake up earlier than they did when younger. Insomnia is common in adults age 60 and older, which makes it harder to get a good night’s rest. But senior adults still need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
The need for intimacy doesn’t end when you reach a certain age. In a 2018 study of adults aged 65 – 80, two-thirds of the respondents said they are interested in sex. More than half reported that sex is important to their quality of life.
RELATED: 4 Scientifically Proven Ways To Protect Your Memory With Age
Some people worry that if a parent has Alzheimer’s they will develop it. While there are genetic variants linked to Alzheimer’s, inheriting a risk factor does not mean you will develop Alzheimer’s. Some people without any risk factors develop Alzheimer’s. Others have the risk factor, but still don’t develop memory loss. If you are concerned about reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s, a review of research found encouraging evidence for three interventions:
Researchers note that these interventions show promise in preventing Alzheimer’s but the results are inconclusive.
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High blood pressure is common in older adults, especially people in their 80s and 90s. Some people assume that they can stop taking their medication when their blood pressure goes down. But don’t stop taking your medication until you talk to your doctor.
Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis, a disease where bones get so weak they break easily. But men can also develop osteoporosis. In fact, one in five men over age 50 will have a fracture related to osteoporosis. To prevent osteoporosis, eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D. Do weight-bearing exercises such as walking, stair climbing and weight training.
In the U.S., one in five drivers are age 65 or older. There is no need to give up your driver’s license unless hearing or vision changes affect your driving ability. If you’re not sure if you should be driving, ask yourself these questions.
A healthy lifestyle and social activities go a long way toward preventing most of the issues associated with old age. An optimistic mindset and an appreciation of the wisdom that comes with age also set the tone for healthy and vibrant senior years.
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