Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this condition
We've all heard those aging misconceptions about how growing old means growing sick and forgetful. But like most stereotypes, myths about aging are also wrong. As we get older, it's important to understand the reality of aging, including the positive aspects that come with it. You'll see that growing older isn't necessarily accompanied by life-limiting declines in health, and that, actually, you can be very happy at this stage of your life.
To debunk the biggest myths about aging, check out the following gallery. Simply click on.
While many people view seniors as being stuck in their ways, the truth is that many manage to break bad habits, such as smoking or poor diet. These changes can help contribute to a more positive lifestyle.
As people age, they may find themselves having a harder time falling and staying asleep. But that doesn't mean they need less sleep. Older adults need the same amount of sleep as all adults, which is seven to nine hours each night.
There’s a common misconception that seniors are always unhappy. In fact, multiple studies have shown that happiness generally begins to increase after age 50.
Studies have shown that seniors actually become more trusting and good-natured as they age. Those who are cranky are often suffering from cognitive decline, dementia, depression, or isolation.
While it’s true that memory does decline with age and some do experience extreme forms of cognitive impairment, it's incorrect to say that all seniors become forgetful.
Many people believe that seniors are unable to drive a car. The truth is, however, that many seniors continue to drive well into their golden years, and only one in seven seniors report not being able to drive.
According to a 2009 study by the Pew Research Center, 60% of people felt younger the more they aged. Basically, age really is nothing but a number.
While some seniors do struggle with bone density issues or chronic diseases, it’s possible to stay healthy and fit with good eating habits, regular weight-bearing exercise, and a generally healthy lifestyle.
Fortunately, many seniors are incredibly invested in learning new hobbies, meeting new people, and taking up new pastimes.
After the kids are all grown up, many seniors actually feel higher levels of happiness than many people expect. Plus, many have grandchildren and extended families to enjoy time with in their golden years.
While some seniors experience physical or emotional issues that affect their ability to have or enjoy intimate moments, many problems can be addressed to make it possible and pleasurable. In fact, the New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging reported that 60% of all seniors still enjoy regular intimate contact.
While many housebound seniors do experience dangerous levels of senior isolation, it's commonly regarded as the exception rather than the rule. The truth is that whether via in-home care programs or assisted living facilities, seniors have access to a great deal of social programs, adult-learning classes, and recreational pastimes.
While some genetic factors may influence the likelihood of some diseases, the majority of aging comes down to how an individual lives their life. People with unhealthy lifestyles are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases than their healthy counterparts, and things like exposure to toxins, diet, and exercise all play a role.
The years can take a toll on your joints. But according to the National Institutes of Health in the US, only half of all people over the age of 65 suffer from the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis.
Although osteoporosis is more common in women, this disease still affects many men as well. By 65-70, men and women lose bone mass at the same rate.
Creative activities like painting, acting, or crafting can help seniors feel less lonely and more positive. This shows that not only can seniors be creative, but it’s also good for them to do so.
While it's true that your metabolism gets slower, weight gain in seniors is not a given. The key is to adjust habits by eating smarter and exercising.
As you age, you tend to look back on your life more. Some might lament, but others tend to be more thankful. Studies show that the majority of seniors fall in the latter category. This is a powerful factor in happiness, satisfaction, and gratitude that can help boost a senior’s overall outlook.
Can those face creams and topical treatments really reverse the effects of aging? Well, it depends. There are some products with an acid component, as well as treatments offered by dermatologists, that exfoliate the top layers of skin, making it look smoother. But this is only temporary. You can, however, protect your skin by not smoking, drinking water, and wearing sunscreen.
According to a Congressional Research Service report, "The poverty rate among Americans aged 65 and older has declined by almost 70% in the past five decades." However, for some, being on a fixed income as inflation takes its toll is a liability.
Though depression can occur in senior citizens, studies show that older adults are actually less likely to be depressed than younger adults.
Even after retirement age, many seniors choose to continue working for the social and emotional benefits it offers. And they're just as productive as their younger counterparts.
Most seniors are anything but lazy and dull. Studies have found that about half of seniors spend time practicing a hobby every day. And contrary to popular belief, most seniors actually enjoy busy days full of things they love.
Although the risk of dementia grows as people get older, it's not inevitable, and many people live into their nineties without significant declines in thinking and behavior.
As you age, you may think exercise could do more harm than good. However, studies show that physical activity can support both physical and mental health as you age.
A person’s chances of having Alzheimer’s disease may be higher if they have a family history of dementia. This is because there are some genes that increase the risk. However, having a parent with Alzheimer’s doesn't necessarily mean that someone will develop the disease.
Cognitive skills are based on a lifetime of experience and education. Decisions, whether about a medical choice, finances, or anything else related to an older person, should involve them as long as they're still competent.
If you take high blood pressure medicine and your blood pressure goes down, it means the medicine and any lifestyle changes are working. However, it's important to continue your treatment and activities long term.
The truth is there's still much more to learn about aging. But as we live longer and better, we'll face even more questions, prompting us to seek answers.
Sources: (National Institute on Aging) (Harvard Pilgrim Health Care) (AgingCare)
See also: Tips on healthy aging for a long life
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LIFESTYLE Misconceptions
We've all heard those aging misconceptions about how growing old means growing sick and forgetful. But like most stereotypes, myths about aging are also wrong. As we get older, it's important to understand the reality of aging, including the positive aspects that come with it. You'll see that growing older isn't necessarily accompanied by life-limiting declines in health, and that, actually, you can be very happy at this stage of your life.
To debunk the biggest myths about aging, check out the following gallery. Simply click on.