Unfortunately, there are many myths out there in regard to aging. In fact, there are too many to count. However, there are some that are quite easy to bust open. If you care for an elderly or aging adult, it is important that you know the facts about aging. It is also important that you don’t believe the myths about aging. Today you will learn some of the facts.
Elderly Adults Are Naturally Angry
One of the myths out there about aging is that elderly adults are just naturally angry. This isn’t true. In fact, some research shows that people are happier after they turn 50 years of age. They become more content in their lifestyle and know who they truly are. If you are caring for an elderly adult who seems angry all the time or if there are bouts when they are increasingly angry, this is something to talk with them about. It could be a symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease or there could be something else going on in their life.
All Elderly Adults Need Help After the Age of 60
Many people believe that all elderly adults need help after the age of 60. The truth is that some elderly adults will need more help than others. Some elderly adults might not need help with anything by the age of 60. If you have an elderly adult in your life and they do need extra help, you can hire an elderly care provider to assist them or you can be there more for them, as well. Until then, let your elderly loved one continue being independent.
Elderly Adults Have More Health Issues Than Younger Adults
While some elderly adults may have more health issues than younger adults, that doesn’t hold true for every elderly adult. It depends on various factors including lifestyle, prior medical history, family history of medical conditions, and more. If your elderly loved one exercises, stays connected socially, and eats right they might not have many health issues at all.
Elderly Adults Aren’t Able to Learn New Things
There are far too many people who believe that elderly adults can’t learn new things or retain new information. While the brain might shrink, making it more difficult to retain new information, that doesn’t mean your elderly loved one is incapable of learning new things. Elderly adults can still expand their knowledge.
All Elderly Adults Are Stubborn
If you believe that all elderly adults are stubborn, you should know that this isn’t true. Yes, there are some aging adults who are more stubborn than others. However, that is just a personality trait. There are many younger adults who are stubborn, as well.
By learning more about the myths and the facts regarding aging, you can better help your elderly loved one live the best life possible.
Sources
https://www.apa.org/pi/aging/resources/guides/myth-reality.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17214247
If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Elderly Care in St. Petersburg, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.
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Becky Moultrie is Owner and Administrator of Assisting Hands Home Care Serving Pinellas. Guided by a motto to Do Good with Love, she’s well positioned to do just that at Assisting Hands. She has a passion for helping families keep seniors and those who are diabled happy and healthy at home. She serves on a number of boards in Pinellas County including the Pinellas Park Gateway Chamber and Better Living Seniors (BLS), leading the Membership Committee. Annually, she hosts a Silver Santa Party, collecting donations for nearly 100 low income seniors in the county. She attends Blessed Sacrament Church, Seminole where she is an Ascribed Member of the Rosminian Order. When not busy Doing Good in the community, Becky is at home with her husband David & their 4 children, tending to their beehives and digging in the garden.
