6 misconceptions and false myths about older people

There are many myths that accompany the elderly and the aging process: loss of sexuality, bad character, depressions And a long etcetera.

Far from being rational, we fall into the error of generalizing traits in certain age groups, and the elderly are commonly the worst offenders. To the outdated image in the way of thinking, we integrate a retrograde vision in the way of living and relate, something that increasingly collides with reality as shown by both the media and they themselves.

Widespread myths and mistakes about aging

However, these myths survive despite the number of exceptions that represent older people.

These are seis ideas that we have wrongly formed about our elders.

1. Aging implies physical and mental deterioration

As we age, our abilities may be impaired, but this does not necessarily mean that we suffer disabling physical and mental decline. The key is to stay active to face old age with an optimal level and thus prevent loss of functionality. Being a primary health agent and promoting it instead of being carried away by what we believe has to come.

It may interest you: "Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): concept, causes and symptoms"

2. Older people develop a bad character

Often there is talk of curmudgeonly, impertinent and ill-mannered older people. However, we fall into the error of generalizing since these behaviors are not exclusive to older people. Don't you know a nice, polite and caring senior? If so, don't fall for this mistake.

3. We all have the same fate in aging

"The acts that I carry out in the present will determine my future." This is a reality, so depending on what kind of life you lead, so you will grow old. Start taking care of yourself now and follow the principles of active aging.

4. Aging is synonymous with loss of sexuality

Sexuality remains throughout life. With the age you may decrease your activity, but the desire remains, as well as the exercise of their genital function.

5. As we get older we become more useless

This idea negatively affects opportunities for personal growth and autonomy.

What's more, contributes to social isolation and attacks the mood. It is so serious that others think this of the elderly, as that they themselves feel this way. If I do not believe in something, my actions will not be directed towards its search.

6. Older people are sadder than younger people

Sadness is not linked to years, but to life circumstances and the way we face and overcome them. Older people are more likely to live critical moments, it is natural, but life experience gives them tools to get ahead. Most older people reflect a high degree of well-being and happiness.

In conclusion

From the blog CSIC Network Aging we conclude that…:

“Old age not only brings ailments: it also brings happiness. It is not getting old that takes away happiness, but the circumstances associated with aging. "

And it is that they have not taught us to grow old, but neither is the image of a generalized disabling and dependent old age real. Nowadays, maturity is another stage of life characterized by healthy and active people who seek a moment of fullness everything they wanted to do in life and could not for a multitude of reasons.

Surely if you stop to think you know people between 60 and 90 years old, happy, active, independent, full of energy and healthy. If so, do not fall into overgeneralization and get going to contradict all those myths by using you as an example in the future.