Many people make assumptions about aging, what it is like to grow “old”, and how older age will affect them. But as we are getting older, it is important to understand the positive aspects of aging. Research has shown that you can help preserve your health and mobility as you age by adopting or continuing healthy habits and lifestyle choices.
Read on to learn about 10 common misconceptions related to aging and older adults.
- Depression and loneliness are normal in older adults.
- The older I get, the less sleep I need.
- Older adults can’t learn new things.
- It is inevitable that older people will get dementia.
- Older adults should take it easy and avoid exercise so they don’t get injured.
- If a family member has Alzheimer’s disease, I will have it, too.
- Now that I am older, I will have to give up driving.
- Only women need to worry about osteoporosis.
- I’m “too old” to quit smoking.
- My blood pressure has lowered or returned to normal, so I can stop taking my medication.