The myths below are taken and expanded from the senior planets 7 myths website.
Myth #1 “Most older adults live in nursing homes and cannot get around by themselves”
A meagre 5% of senior citizens live in nursing homes, with most requiring little to no help getting around. Many older adults prefer to live at home or with family, often with an aim to increasing their independence.
Myth #2 “Older adults do little more than sit around, watch television, and sleep”
Many retirees plan for their retirement with continuation of hobbies, care of grandchildren and taking up new interests. Some people are even more active after retirement than before (i.e. Fayes Grandad)
Myth #3 “Older adults who continue to work are inefficient and miss many work days due to illness”
Older adults who continue to work often have reams of knowledge about their industry which is a valuable asset to any company. Not only that, but with such insider knowledge, many employees are just as efficient as their younger counter parts. Advances in healthcare also mean that many illnesses are able to be better managed to provide the best quality of life for an older adult who is continuing to work
Myth #4 “Older adults are lonely and depressed”
Loneliness is a major affliction of the elderly, however there are many ways to combat this, such as the suggestions on our (LINK) page. That is not to say, however, that all older adults are lonely. Quite the opposite, in fact. Many retirees take up hobbies to increase their social experiences which alleviate feeling of loneliness and depression.
Myth #5 “People over 65 have diseases and disorders that limits their freedom to do what they want”
The average life expectancy for people in the UK has risen over the last few years, and this is due to the amazing advances in healthcare. Not only are people living longer, they are also healthier, allowing people to live the life they want to for longer. Those people who do experience disease and disorders don’t have to give up their hobbies and interests. Most activities can be modified for an individual, giving them their freedom back.
Myth #6 “Older adults aren’t interested in people of the opposite sex”
Relationships are very important as people age. Research has shown that the relationship between spouses or life partners offers the greatest social support for individuals, especially throughout retirement.
Myth #7 “Older adults are obsessed with death and dying. They fear death more than any other age group”
Most older adults don’t dwell on death and dying. They are aware of the natural process of ageing and come to terms with the idea in their own time.
Occupation for Retirement 