There are some commonly held beliefs about aging that aren’t exactly true when you dive a bit deeper. For instance, our basic personalities are formed early in life, so there’s no standard “older personality.” This is just one common misconception about aging that still tends to linger. Below you’ll find seven more and the truth behind each one.
1. Older Adults Aren’t Interested in Modern Technology
Pew Research Center notes nearly 70 percent of adults 65 and older use the Internet on a regular basis. While some older adults enjoy things from “their time,” many people within this age group are more than willing to explore newer forms of technology.
2. Seniors Don’t Need or Prefer Close Relationships
This misconception likely stems from the fact that many seniors prefer to remain living at home, even if it means living alone. This is a sign of a desire to remain independent, but it doesn’t mean older adults don’t need or want social interaction. Maintaining social relationships also provides an assortment of mental and physical benefits for aging adults
3. People Get Set in Their Ways as They Age
While older adults do generally appreciate routines, seniors aren’t naturally inflexible when it comes to making positive adjustments later in life. In fact, many seniors are more than willing to explore new hobbies, try healthier foods, and find fun and beneficial ways to stay physically active and mentally engaged.
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 senior care. Roseville Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
4. Older People Don’t Contribute Much to Society
Older adults benefit from having a sense of a purpose. One way this goal is often accomplished is with community involvement. Senior Corps, a network of national service programs, reports having more than 200,000 volunteers 55 and over. Many of them contribute by doing things such as tutoring young people and assisting fellow seniors who are homebound.
5. Older Adults Aren’t Interested in Intimacy Anymore
It’s often assumed the desire for intimate relationships decreases with age, a myth that has largely persisted because sexual health among seniors isn’t widely studied. However, a 2017 University of Michigan survey found roughly 2 out of 3 seniors questioned reported being interested in sex. Further, more than 75 percent of older respondents considered intimacy an important part of romantic relationship
6 . Aging Means Being Less Capable of Making Important Decision
Age brings wisdom, a fact some family caregivers forget when looking after loved ones. This sometimes results in decisions about important things such as medical care, living arrangements, and finances being made primarily by well-meaning family members. But older adults who are still competent are likely fully capable of having a say in decisions that affect them. Plus, shared decision-making often benefits everyone involved.
When considering elderly home care, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits.
7. Decreases in Mental & Physical Health Are Inevitable with Age
The human body naturally ages, and this is inevitable. However, there are many ways seniors can slow this process down and remain mentally and physically healthy well into the later years of life. For instance, aerobic exercise helps aging joints and increases the circulation the brain needs to function well. Some older adults need a gentle nudge to cut down on sedentary time, but it’s entirely possible for seniors to find enjoyable and beneficial forms of exercise and mental stimulation.
Aging has its benefits, but it can make daily activities challenging for some seniors. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing a serious illness and require more extensive live-in care. Roseville seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. If your loved one needs professional home care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (916) 226-3737 today.