Stereotypes of older adults are found in everything from print advertising to movies and television shows, which has led to many misconceptions about the aging process. By looking beyond these stereotypes, it becomes easier to understand and communicate with the senior loved one in your life.
All Seniors Are Unhappy and Lonely
Changes associated with aging may put seniors at risk for depression and isolation, but the stereotype that all seniors are irritable and lonely is far from the truth. An individual’s attitude and personality have more to do with his or her level of happiness than age. A 2012 study of over 10,000 adults in the United States and the United Kingdom conducted by the University of Warwick found that older adults were actually happier than younger adults. Researchers in Heidelberg, Germany, spoke with 40 centenarians about their happiness. Approximately 70 percent of those interviewed said they laughed often, and 71 percent described themselves as happy.
If you’re concerned about your loved one being lonely and want to increase his or her social interaction, consider hiring an in-home caregiver. The type of home care Montgomery, AL, seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Home Care Assistance, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time.
People Become Less Productive as They Get Older
Older adults have spent years honing their organizational and problem-solving skills, which can make them extremely productive. When compared to their younger counterparts, older employees tend to have lower tardiness and absentee rates. Seniors also contribute countless volunteer hours each year to various community organizations.
Aging Dulls Brain Function
Reaction times can slow with age, but seniors have years of experience and knowledge that allow them to outperform younger adults in certain areas. The brain is a muscle, and it will continue to develop new connections as long as it’s exercised, which makes older adults capable of learning new skills. A case in point is the renowned artist Grandma Moses who didn’t begin painting until her late 70s.
If your loved one has developed Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, a professional caregiver can help him or her manage cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Montgomery Home Care Assistance provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.
Seniors Are Unable to Adapt to Change
Many people confuse firmly held opinions with an inability to adapt to change. Older adults have been through many challenges that have required them to make changes in their lives. While seniors may be slower to change opinions based on years of experience, they’ve mastered the art of fighting off challenges.
Older Adults Aren’t Interested in Sex
Age doesn’t necessarily decrease sexual desire and interest. Healthy seniors who have partners are as likely to engage in sex as younger adults. A study conducted by the New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging found that approximately 60 percent of seniors interviewed reported having regular sexual experiences during the prior year.
Healthy aging is possible, so don’t believe the stereotypes about seniors. Today’s seniors are living healthy, vibrant, and exciting lives past the age of 65 with little to no specialized assistance. Aging adults who do require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable elderly care. Families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. Call (334) 593-3988 today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.