Many commonly held beliefs about aging aren’t true at all. These myths contribute to a cultural outlook on aging, and they can impact the way individuals approach their golden years. Take a look at some of the most popular myths about getting older.
1. Seniors Are Irritable
Countless TV shows and movies portray seniors as irritable individuals. Think of Mr. Wilson from Dennis the Menace or the characters played by Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon in the movie Grumpy Old Men. While irritable 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 lives if they avoid negative thinking.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Home Care Assistance 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 Decreases with Age
For seniors without cognitive impairment, the aging process doesn’t necessarily affect the size, capacity, or function of the brain. This myth got started because of a study that showed the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for memory retention, was smaller in seniors than in younger adults. The most likely cause of a shrinking brain is stress, not age, which means seniors need to reduce their anxiety levels if they want to boost their cognitive health.
3. Age-Related Issues Are Genetically Ingrained
Genetics is a contributing factor in various age-related issues, but it’s not an insuperable one. Even if seniors are genetically predisposed to certain health concerns like heart disease or diabetes, these predispositions can often be overcome with healthy lifestyle choices.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care service. Victoria Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
4. All Seniors Have Brittle Bones
Older adults are susceptible to osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and leaves aging adults prone to injuries. The idea of a brittle-boned senior with poor posture is just a stereotype. Today, osteoporosis is more preventable than ever.
5. Seniors Are Set in Their Ways
Seniors are often open to change. They can get rid of bad habits and adopt healthy ones. If the doctor has prescribed a major lifestyle change like an exercise regimen or a restricted diet, seniors and their caregivers shouldn’t fret. People in their golden years are capable of making new positive lifestyle choices every day.
6. Older Adults Aren’t Capable of Learning New Things
Just as seniors can adopt new habits, they can also learn new things. Many individuals use their retirement years to pick up new skills, invest in new hobbies, and try things they didn’t have time for during their youth. Seniors can learn to play the piano, speak French, or paint with watercolors, and they shouldn’t let stereotypes limit their learning.
7. Every Senior Experiences Joint Pain
While joint conditions like arthritis are prevalent among seniors, joint pain isn’t an inevitability. Research shows that exercise and a healthy diet can keep the joints limber and ache 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 Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of respite care Victoria seniors can depend on. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at (250) 592-4881 today.