What Myths About Aging Might Hold Seniors Back?
Myths and misconceptions about growing older are everywhere, and when seniors believe them that can have an impact on how they live their lives. Understanding what’s behind these myths and helping seniors get past them can greatly improve their quality of life. Home care providers can offer seniors the support they need to live life how they want no matter what they’re facing.
Exercise Might Get Seniors Hurt
Sometimes seniors avoid exercise because they believe that it’s going to cause injuries and accidents. Unfortunately, believing this myth can cause seniors to reduce their mobility and then have more difficulty moving well. As long as their doctors agree that exercise is safe for them, seniors may need help from elder care providers to incorporate more movement into their daily routines.
They Don’t Need Much Sleep
Another common misconception is that seniors just don’t need to sleep as much as they did in the past. Some seniors might not need as much sleep, but everyone is an individual and has unique health issues. Most experts recommend anywhere from seven to nine hours of sleep for good health. If seniors do experience insomnia, they should talk with their doctors.
Falls Are Just Part of Growing Older
Some people perpetuate the belief that falling is just what happens to aging adults. This is not true and is a very dangerous myth. Falls are not normal and are completely preventable. Moreover, falling just one time doubles a senior’s risk of experiencing another fall. Couple that with the fact that falls can cause serious injuries that last the rest of their lifetime and seniors need to practice fall prevention regularly.
Feeling Lonely Is Normal for Older Adults
It’s also damaging for seniors to believe that it’s normal for them to feel isolated and lonely. Believing this myth can cause them to not reach out to people when they are suddenly feeling lonely and isolated. There are solutions that can help, like having home care providers available to assist with daily activities and offer companionship.
Aging Adults Are Always Cranky
Lots of people believe the myth that seniors are just going to be cranky, no matter what. The reality is that seniors may be a lot happier when they have more time and freedom to try new things and spend their time in ways that is more fulfilling for them. Aging doesn’t have to be a negative experience at all.
They’re Going to Have to Leave Their Homes
One misconception that is often also a big fear for seniors is that they may have to leave their homes. While there are a lot of factors that play into whether seniors need to move or not, it’s not necessarily a given that seniors have to leave their homes. With the help of home care services, seniors can get the support they need with daily activities to age in place successfully.
Talking about these myths with seniors can help family caregivers understand more about the support seniors might need. Home care providers can help families to get the assistance necessary for seniors to stay safe and healthy as they remain at home.
