Live Your Best Golden Years by Knowing the Truth About These Aging Myths
There are common aging myths that many, many people still believe. And they might be holding you back from enjoying your “golden years”! Let’s find out why they’re false.
Aging Myth #1 – You Will Slow Down, Move Less
As you get older, you might find that you no longer enjoy activities that you used to love. Perhaps you have some physical ailments, or you just find some movements a little more difficult.
Perhaps you convince yourself that the older you get, the less you can do.
But that’s not the case at all!
Not getting physical exercise increases your risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
And that means not enjoying life, and instead visiting doctors, taking medication and even being hospitalised.
Luckily, even something as simple as walking has huge benefits as you age. For example, walking –
- Improves heart health.
- Lowers blood sugar.
- Reduces pain.
- Promotes social engagement.
- Boosts mental health.
And you don’t need any special equipment or gear or clothes to walk, so you don’t need to spend money on it.
Aging Myth #2- You Need More Sleep
If you’ve ever watched an elderly relative gently fall asleep after a meal, you might think this is another of the aging myths that’s true.
Interestingly, older adults need 30-60 minutes less sleep per night than younger adults, according to studies in the US.
While getting enough rest is important at any age, it is especially vital as you age. Also, you may face more aches and pains which may make you want to sleep more.
Plus, you may take more medication – and many medicines can make you feel sleepy.
The good news is that a 15 to 20 minute nap or rest during the day can be incredibly beneficial to your overall health – and that’s true no matter what your age is!
After your rest or nap you are more alert and your motor performance also improves.
Aging Myth #3 – You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
Many societies believe that as you age, you get more set in your ways. And this may be true. But it doesn’t have to be!
If you always socialize with the same people, and do the same things, then yes, stagnation can set in.
Instead, join a walking group or yoga or Pilates class. It’ll get you out of the house, and improve your strength and wellbeing at the same time.
You’ll also have more time to do things you enjoy – hobbies such as furniture restoration, decorating, painting, crafting, gardening, dog-walking and more are all good for you.
And of course there are ‘brain games’ like Sudoku, playing bridge, crosswords, jigsaws and more. They’ll keep your brain active, and that’s really important as you age, especially if you’re used to working and then stop.
Aging Myth #4 – You Will Gain Weight as you Age
It’s true that your metabolism slows down over time – but in fact it’s been slowing down ever since you were a child!
It’s the same at any age – if you eat food that isn’t healthy, you’ll gain weight and won’t feel good.
If you enjoy junk food, have some occasionally, but most of your meals should be whole foods, not processed. A little red meat if you wish, oily fish such as salmon or mackerel, lots of vegetables and leafy greens will keep you healthy (and allow you treats without gaining weight).
You’ll probably find you need fewer calories as you age, so learn to listen to your body. If you think you feel hungry, try drinking a glass of water. Then if you still feel hungry 30 minutes later, eat a healthy snack.
The Last of the Most Common Aging Myths – You Will Be Lonely and Depressed
It’s true that your social circle changes as you age – friends, spouses and relatives begin fading from your daily life.
That can be hard to adjust to. But you need to replace those special people with others. This is a good time to volunteer or join a group of others that share the same hobbies. At home, develop a routine that keeps you busy, physically and mentally. Enjoy screen time only when you have completed other tasks.
In conclusion
Just because you are aging does not mean you have to stop living and enjoying yourself.
Keeping yourself busy and healthy will bring you many new memories and new adventures as you live out your golden years.
Auto maker Henry Ford is quoted as saying, “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.”
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Warm regards,
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