4 Aging Myths Debunked
by Julia Gregory
From grumpy old men yelling at kids in their front yard to little old ladies knitting a sweater in their rocking chairs, there are many pictures that one could envision when they think about an elderly individual. However, they are typecasts that generally aren't true. Every single senior citizen is different, and they do not all face the same circumstances, health conditions and health declines. Here are just four myths about getting older:
MYTH 1: Every Single Senior Citizen Will Be Diagnosed with Dementia.
Although dementia is an age-related disease, it is not a condition that affects the entire senior citizen population. In fact, WebMD reports that only one percent of individuals between the ages of 60 and 64 and up to half of those older than 85 years of age are affected by dementia.
MYTH 2: All Senior Citizens Are Extremely Lonely.
Many senior citizens have lost their significant other and they now live alone. This causes some to believe that senior citizens are automatically lonely. While social isolation is a common issue for the elderly, it isn't the case for everyone. In fact, there are plenty of older individuals who are very socially engaged with bowling teams, book clubs and church groups. There are also plenty of senior citizens who are actively involved in the caring of their grandchildren. Just because someone is old doesn't mean they're lonely.
MYTH 3: Poverty Is Part of Life for the Elderly.
Since senior citizens tend to live on a fixed income, one may assume that they are not well off. However, older Americans are less likely to spend money on things that aren't needed and are significantly better at saving money. 2010 data released by the United States Census Bureau says that less than 10 percent of the elderly (65 years of age and older) actually fall beneath the poverty line.
MYTH 4: Seniors Should Avoid Exercising to Prevent Injury.
Healthy living is a part of healthy aging, and the elderly needs to take part in physical activity just as much as anyone else. Exercise will help to keep bones strong and muscles limber – both of which helps to prevent falls. Regardless of how frail a senior citizen may be, some form of physical activity is recommended. For those who may not feel as strong as others, water aerobics or yoga may be an ideal form of exercise. The most important thing is that seniors don't push themselves too far and only perform activities they are comfortable with.
Stereotypes for senior citizens are exactly that – stereotypes. Simply because one gets older does not mean that they are going to suffer from immobility and loneliness. Healthy aging is important, and it is completely possible. Even when one lives in an assisted living facility or requires home care, it's still possible to live comfortably and in good health. If you know someone who would benefit from assisted living, visit Diamond View Assisted Living.
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About Me
The decision to move one of my parents into assisted living was one of the most difficult I have ever made. I had extreme feelings of guilt that led to me being at the facility with my parent practically around the clock. It took a few months before I realized that I could not let my own life fall apart from the guilt I was feeling. I also learned that my parent was fine without me constantly hovering around. Since that time, I have had several friends express similar feelings of guilt. I started this blog to help others in the same situation understand not only their feelings about assisted living, but those of their parents.