Separating Myths and Facts About Aging

Most of modern society is afraid of getting old. People often associate aging with disease, senility, and immobility but that does not mean that the elderly can no longer contribute to society, have fun, learn something new, and stay healthy.

Here are some common myths about aging that we need to correct.

The elderly are sickly

Bad habits can catch up on you even when you are still in your 20s, so that doesn’t mean that if you’re old you will automatically get sick. Not everyone can live up to the age of 60 years even with the advances in healthcare and science, and this is determined mostly by genes and lifestyle. Some seniors who live up to 90 are certainly healthier than the younger people who live stressful, unhealthy lives.

Old people can’t do sports

Not having to worry about going to work everyday actually gives you more time to explore other interests or start a new hobby. Most sports are accessible even to the seniors as long as they have been active and healthy all their life. Some seniors even find new life in learning new activities such as jogging, cycling, trekking, water sports, golf, and martial arts.

Seniors are always moody

Stress will make anyone moody, especially if the person cannot handle day-to-day challenges very well. When you’re a senior, you have fewer problems to worry about because all your children have graduated and are earning for themselves; plus, you don’t need to go to work every day. In fact, the most stressful time of a person’s life is between the ages 20 to 35 when the combined pressures of family, work, and society can be felt at full force.

The elderly can’t learn new tricks

The brain does not shrink as you get older even if your movements and reaction are a lot slower. Seniors can still enjoy the things they love and discover new things. It is also the perfect time to learn a new skill because you have all the time to spare.

Staying at home and wondering when you’re going to expire will not be good for your mental well-being. In fact, staying active after retirement can help stop dementia and other degenerative illnesses from developing.

Old people suffer the effects of aging

There is so much pressure given to people to stay and look young. Just look at all the age-defying beauty products sold in Singapore and the rest of the world. But getting old is not a disease. It’s natural to have bald spots, graying hair, and wrinkled skin.

It is a natural process that everyone must go through at some point, that is, if you’re lucky to even reach 50 years. Instead of feeling like you’re being left out, look at aging as a blessing. The older you get means the more time to spend with family and friends and to enjoy the things you love longer.

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