Common Myths About Aging

Let’s review some of the common myths about aging and the real statistics.

Myth: To Be Old is to Be Sick
Reality: Older people are in remarkably good health, with fewer illnesses and disabilities; 89% of those age 65-74 report no disability at all.

Myth: You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
Reality: Research shows that older people can and do learn new things. Many seniors today are keeping up in a number of ways. 13% of total online users are 55 and over.

Myth: The Horse is Out of the Barn (meaning that the behaviors and habits of our youth and early life have already caused irreversible damage to our health)
Reality: New habits such as healthy eating, regular exercise, mental activity and a strong social life are remarkably effective in combating the byproducts of yesteryear’s bad habits and unhealthy living.

Myth: The Secret to Successful Aging is to Choose Your Parents Wisely
Reality: The MacArthur Foundation conducted a study that showed that lifestyle changes are as important indicators of successful and healthy aging as hereditary is.

Myth: The Lights may be on, But the Voltage is Low
Reality: Mental Acuity and physical ability to an extent decline with age however they are greatly affected by attitude and lifestyle habits.

Myth: The Elderly Don’t Pull their Own
Reality: Seniors play some of the most important roles in society both in formal positions within the community, and informal roles as parents, grandparents, friends and neighbors. Additionally, new opportunities for paid work are blossoming since the traditional retirement age is being
reinvented.