Top Misconceptions and Myths About Aging

Many people are concerned about growing old. There are so many misconceptions and myths about what will happen when you get older. Many of these are quite scary to think about, and because of them, many people are terrified to grow old. Let’s take a look at some of the most common and prevalent myths and misconceptions about getting older.

Senility is an Inevitability

This is completely untrue. Many people feel that, as you get older, the brain degenerates much more quickly, and can actually easily become diseased. It is felt by many that there is no way that you can age without, at one point or another, becoming senile. Luckily, this is not true. In fact, a large majority of people do not become senile in their old age. That is not to say that you won’t forget things here and there – most likely you will. However, the occasional bought of forgetfulness is completely different from true senility.

Speak up; I Can’t Hear You!

It is almost silly how many people are concerned that as they get older they will need a hearing aid. Though you may find that you don’t hear quite as well as you once did, that does not mean that you will end up with a hearing aid. In fact, only about 35 percent of people who are in their 80′s end up needing a hearing aid.

Get off my Lawn, you Lousy Kids!

Many feel that, as they get older, they will become mean, uncouth, and withdrawn from others. This is, in the large majority of cases, not the case. In fact, it has been shown that the personality of a person is highly unlikely to change after about age 30. Therefore, unless something completely changes, such as having a stroke or other huge, life altering event, you are not likely to be a grouchy, grumpy old person, unless you are a grouchy, grumpy young person.

Drop the Pounds to Add the Years

It is a misconception that the less you weigh, the more likely you are to live longer. Of course, we are not talking about unhealthy weight loss, but weights in the healthy range. In fact, studies have shown that this is not true at all. When you are in your 70′s, having a little extra weight on you is not a bad thing, at all. Having a BMI of around 27 can prove to be better for you in your elder years than a “more healthy” BMI of 19-25.

There are many myths that you may hear as you are getting older that have to do with aging. It is suggested that you take them with a grain of salt, as most of them are not true. Getting older does not have to be a terrifying experience. Instead, it can be a great time to share with your family, continue to improve relationships, and take some time for yourself to relax a little. For those truly interested in effects of aging, there are Gerontology courses and degrees available online. Don’t get discouraged as the years add up; instead, have some fun!