People are living longer and staying healthier. Yet some myths about aging still persist. This is one of the reasons why some people fear getting older.
Let’s look at five common myths on aging. We’ll explore why these negative stereotypes of aging are simply not true, and then follow up each with some good health advice to keep you active.
1. Older people are sedentary.
Some people believe that as we age, we naturally need to be less active. They envision life as a senior as spending time inside, in a recliner. But there’s no reason seniors can’t have a fulfilling lifestyle!
If you don’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation, you can see a decline in your abilities. The way to combat this is by staying active. Get involved in activities in your community, your church or any other local organization. Adopt a pet and enjoys walks together. Volunteer for a cause that is meaningful to you. Follow your interests to find options to help you stay active.
2. Older people can’t exercise.
Exercise is one of the best ways to maintain your health as you age. You don’t have to run a marathon to reap the benefits, either. Daily exercise, in the form of cardio, weight training or stretching, can help you feel limber and protect you against some diseases.
There are many, fun, low-impact exercises seniors can enjoy – from walking and biking, to swimming and yoga. Find the right one for you and incorporate exercise into your routine!
3. Older people are no longer learning.
There is no expiration date on learning! Seniors are taking up hobbies, learning new skills, taking educational classes or adopting technology. For seniors, who are often retired, there’s finally time in their day to explore new interests.
And there’s a health benefit to continued learning as well. Seniors who learn new things will be more likely to retain cognitive ability. And seniors have the benefit of years of experience that helps them understand and adapt to new information.
4. Older people don’t socialize.
Many seniors are enjoying life with friends and family and even meeting new friends. A lack of socialization can be particularly detrimental to seniors. It can lead to a decline in cognitive and physical abilities and can even contribute to depression.
Today’s seniors are texting and staying in touch more than ever, even through social media. It’s just a matter of making engaging with people a priority.
It’s easier to sustain friendships with old friends or co-workers when you plan regular get-togethers. It doesn’t have to be a big event or require any work on your part. Meet for breakfast at a local restaurant or take a walk in a park. Go shopping and out to lunch.
5. Older people no longer enjoy life.
If you think growing older looks bleak, you aren’t paying attention to today’s seniors! The older generation is enjoying the benefits of age – more time to pursue hobbies and socialize, freedom to enjoy leisure activities, and so many options for physical activity.
Your state of mind can make a huge difference in how you age. With the knowledge gained over the years, many seniors are resilient and wise. They are using that treasure trove of experience to build a full and interesting life as an older person.
Find the right primary care physician
One of the most common misconceptions about health care for seniors is that seeing a physician is stressful. Not if you find the right primary care physician.
At NewPrimaryCare.com™, we have curated a list of primary care physicians who offer value-based health care. What is value-based care? In contrast to a traditional approach to primary care, we focus on the value you receive from your Medicare doctor visit.
Our providers see fewer patients, so they can focus on you. They are proactive in health management, seeking to avoid health issues, not just treat them. Our providers specialize in caring for Medicare patients, focusing on your unique needs. With our value-based care model, providers are rewarded for helping Medicare patients get healthier.
Use our Find a Doctor tool to find a Medicare doctor or value-based primary care physician near you.
