10 Aging Myths To Shed From Your Belief System

The stories we tell ourselves about aging become the way we live it. Aging myths don’t just sit in the background like folklore or dusty tales. They infiltrate our mindsets. They influence public policy. They show up in beauty aisles, in how doctors treat older patients, in employment decisions and even in everyday jokes. Even more dangerously, they show up in our own inner dialogue which affects our mindset, attitude and feelings about aging. Let’s review ten myths about aging. Myth 1. Older People Are In The Way Of Others. Older people have lots of value and knowledge to bring to the table, making them a helpful part of society at large. They offer so much because of their life experiences, skills, and talents. Myth 2. Life Gets Boring When You Age. If you make an effort to enjoy yourself, go on adventures, try new things, and keep learning, you are going to have your fair share of excitement, novelty, and fun. Myth 3. You Will Lose Your Memory Once You Age. While some people do experience memory issues as a part of aging, this isn’t true for everyone. If you fear experiencing memory loss, you can be proactive about protecting your cognitive health by engaging in reflection and meditative exercises, challenging yourself to learn new things, solving puzzles, and being socially active. Myth 4. You Can’t Be Physically Fit When You Are Older. Just because you are in an aging body doesn't mean you need to be in a physically inactive body. You can find ways to safely move and enjoy exercise at every stage of your life. Jack La Lane was swimming 40 miles a day in his 80’s. Myth 5. All Older People Are Lonely Or Depressed Or Both. As you age, you can avoid loneliness and depression by being proactive and doing something to keep yourself socially active. Myth 6. There Is Nothing Left To Learn Or Explore Once You’re Older. Lifelong learners can experience rich, fulfilling, and exciting lives no matter what age they are because they are willing to embrace adventure and newness. Myth 7. Aging Guarantees That Your Health Is Going To Decline. While an aging body may require specific care and considerations, it does not mean that it is an unhealthy body. Myth 8. Sex And Romance Are Over Once You Get Older. Older people can enjoy sex and romance just as much as anyone else. In fact, many older people experience more satisfying romances and sex lives because they have more experience and maturity to bring to the table in their relationships. Myth 9. Once You Get Older, You’re Going To Get Left Behind On Trends And Technological Advances. If you choose to learn about new trends and advances in technology, you will also stay up to date and aware as any other person, no matter what your age is.