There are several stereotypes associated with the elderly, and many of these generalizations are an example of society’s bias against aging. Here are some myths about the aging process that simply aren’t true.
Seniors Will Definitely Develop Dementia
Many seniors experience moments of forgetfulness, which does not necessarily mean they have dementia. Age-associated memory impairment affects about 40 percent of people over the age of 65, and it is different than memory loss caused by an underlying medical condition. Seniors who are aging normally may not be able to recall the name of an acquaintance or where they last saw their cell phone. However, seniors with dementia may forget the names of their relatives or what they ate for lunch.
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust in Oakville, ON, home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
Seniors Shouldn’t Exercise
Some seniors may not have the mobility necessary for an aerobics class. However, it’s incorrect to assume they are too frail to exercise. By exercising regularly, seniors can keep their bones strong, their muscles limber, and their hearts healthy. Mobile seniors should consider joining group exercise classes at their local gym. Exercise is equally important for seniors with limited mobility, and they can do water aerobics, chair aerobics, or work with a qualified personal trainer.
Seniors Are Lonely
While social isolation can be a problem for some seniors, loneliness is not an inevitability. Many people are active in their senior years and participate in everything from church bake sales to monthly book clubs. Seniors living in retirement communities have a wide variety of social opportunities, as these communities are designed to promote interaction. Even seniors who live alone have several opportunities to communicate with friends and family members. Thanks to technological advancements, seniors can connect with their loved ones via email, Skype, and social media.
Seniors Can’t Learn New Skills
People over the age of 65 may not learn a new language or instrument as quickly as their younger counterparts, but this doesn’t mean they’re incapable of learning. Retirement is a great time for picking up new hobbies and skills. Many seniors take classes at the local community college where they can learn sewing, Spanish, and other new skills. Some people even find their true calling in their later years. For example, take Grandma Moses, the famous painter who didn’t have her first art show until the age of 80.
If your elderly loved one needs assistance with learning a new skill or managing daily tasks, consider hiring a respite caregiver for him or her. Oakville respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
Seniors Can’t Adapt
Some people think of seniors as being inflexible or rigid. While some seniors do have strong beliefs, this doesn’t mean they can’t adapt. Older adults have spent decades adapting to changing cultures and new technologies. Seniors who move into retirement communities need to adapt to an entirely new living situation, making them much more adaptable than their younger counterparts.
If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Oakville Home Care Assistance can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks. To learn about our premier senior care plans and revolutionary elderly care methods, give us a call at (905) 337-1200 today.