Older people prefer small social circles
This is all personal. Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you can’t be popular and sociable, and it can actually be healthy to maintain lots of friendships. Often you can make friends at work or after retirement very easily by going to community groups.
You get set in your ways
Changing of opinions and interests is very normal, because as the world changes so do we. Not every middle aged to elderly person refuses to change or see new perspectives, and it’s just a bit of a stereotype. Keep yourself educated and willing to learn.
It’s difficult making decisions on your own
Age doesn’t change your personality, and your choices are your own. You can absolutely decide if you want to move, what car you want, how to decorate your home etc., without the need of others. You will find that when you need help you will be able to ask for it.
You can’t be stylish
Don’t let age define your wardrobe. Style and fashion doesn’t have to be boring the older you get, so don’t let magazines tell you you’re too old. Wearing what you like can make you feel good about yourself and can bring more joy to your day.
You need to become more ‘mature’
Older doesn’t mean boring. Your personality doesn’t need to do a sudden 360 just because you’ve hit 60. Being true to yourself whether that by still being mischievous, chatty or witty, will keep you feeling young too. Maturity is an innate feeling and shouldn’t be forced.
Alzheimer’s and dementia is inevitable
These diseases are scary, and especially worrisome the older we get. But it’s not a guarantee you will suffer with them. A healthy lifestyle will help prevent them from developing, and even more and more studies into cognitive health are becoming apparent to help those suffering.
You will become unhealthy
Age doesn’t mean automatic illness. There are many middle aged to elderly people who are in perfect health and thriving, and that’s due to their lifestyle choices as well as genetics. Maintaining a healthy life style will help with illnesses along the way, and your health doesn’t need to be a scary thought.
You’re going to become lonely
You may have older children with their own lives or maybe their own children, but that doesn’t mean you will alone from now. Community groups, internet chats and socials are a great accessible way to make friends and meet new people and they exist in pretty much every town.
Not able to learn new things
Don’t think your schooling is done. Keeping your brain active is a great way to maintain cognitive health, and learning about new skills or interests are just as easy for older people. Don’t be put off by the demographics you see surrounding your interests, most people will welcome you with open arms.
Your career is over
If you’ve been in the same job for 30+ years you might think that’s it for you. But it’s never too late to change career paths. Even if you retire in 5-10 years, see how you can start your new work life if it’s something you’ve always wanted to do.
Depression is normal
Depression is never normal, for any group. If you struggle with your mental health it’s always okay to reach out to someone, and it shouldn’t just be a part of ‘getting older’. Reach out to friends, family or your doctor and get the help you need.
You need less sleep now
After retirement you might think you need less sleep because you’re not doing as much, but that’s not true. Every adult should get minimum eight hours sleep, and older people especially benefit from sleep. It helps you maintain cognitive health and can prevent falls from body fatigue.
Avoiding exercise
Older people shouldn’t be scared to exercise. Movement is super important for physical health, but also for mental health too. Unless you have a significant condition that prevents you from moving, always try to stay active and get outside. Try a new sport you’ve never got round to trying.
You will have to give up driving
Don’t hand over your keys at the first signs of aging. Millions of people over 65 drive in the US and they aren’t considered dangerous drivers. Cars can be a sense of freedom for a lot of people, so don’t give it up just yet. Keep your eyes tested regularly and keep your insurance in check.
You’re ‘too old’ to quit smoking
“I’ve been smoking for 40 years, why stop now?” There is always time to stop and always motive. Reducing your chances of cancer, preventing faster ageing and having healthier lungs. These are all things that can happen immediately after quitting, so don’t think your age is going to prevent that.
It’s too late for skincare
If you already have wrinkles, you might think skin care is a bit redundant. But skin care can help with complexion, discoloration and further wrinkle prevention. Incorporating skin care products to your morning routine can help you feel refreshed and can even make you look younger after repeated use.
You’ll automatically gain weight
Your metabolism slows slightly the older you get, but not much more than the average adult. Staying active and eating a balanced diet will maintain your weight just as well, just be sure to not have too many takeouts each week. You may found your appetite decrease the older you get too.
You won’t stay up to date
Don’t let people tell you that you won’t keep up. Newspapers, the internet and tv will always give you the latest on what’s happening with the world, as long as you stick to reputable sources. It’s a bit of a stereotype that older people are clueless to the world, but that’s not that case.
Having to ‘dress your age’
Don’t empty your wardrobe as soon as you feel ‘older’. Dressing for other people won’t make you feel good about yourself in the long run, and you should always wear what makes you feel the best. ‘Dress your age’ is empty advice, so just keep doing you.
Traveling will be harder
Travelling can be a great way to spend your time after retirement, and it isn’t always hard. A lot of travel agents will help you plan vacations around your needs, whether that be places with less rough terrain, or certain foods. It’s always possible for older people to travel and enjoy it.
You’ll become ‘unattractive’
You may start to feel disheartened by your appearance the older you get, which is hard to deal with but it’s a subjective feeling. Your attractiveness isn’t defined by your age and a lot of people actually find themselves as they age and start to appreciate their beauty more.
Dating will be impossible
The older you get the harder it seems to date. But you’d be surprised about how many places there is to meet potential romanic partners. Technology has advanced a lot when it comes to dating, and there’s even apps and websites solely for older people looking to date.
Older people don’t contribute to society
This stereotype is just ageist and that’s it. There are so many ways older people contribute to society, that isn’t just going to work. Charity events, caring for family members, social groups and much more. Don’t let others make you feel bad about yourself just because you’re out of the traditional work force.
You’ll become grumpier
Not all elderly people sit on their porch and grumble. Often ‘grumpiness’ we see from older people can be them suffering with poor mental health or other personal issues. It’s not destined for someone to go from cheery and friendly to grumpy and sour as soon as their hair goes fully gray.
You’ll have to pick up ‘elderly’ hobbies
If you don’t want to start knitting, don’t. It’s not necessary for older people to fit the ‘old’ image, because everyone is different. Hobbies should be fun and enjoyable, not something you feel required to do. Try new things that you have a genuine interest in.
You won’t be interested in technology
By now, most people will have had some experience with technology, so this stereotype is slowly leaving. Technology is pretty much ingrained into society so it will be used by almost everyone, including older people, and it can be helpful with their every day lives.
You’ll be less productive
This couldn’t be further form the truth. A lot of people who are getting older start to become more productive, even after retirement. This can be due to them wanting to stay active, keep themselves busy, or because they’ve picked up new responsibilities. It can be healthy to have a daily routine to stick to.
You’ll go gray straight away
Gray hair can be an indicator of age, but not always. People go gray at different times or for different reasons, and it never happens all at once. Most people will see a few gray hairs near their roots first, some people may not see any for years.
It’s too late for new hobbies
New hobbies don’t have an age limit. It’s actually healthy for older people to try new things and engage in hobbies as it can help with cognitive health and memory. Hobbies can range from being physical, to being able to do them sat in a chair, so there is always something to explore as you age.
You’ll become lazier
Ageing doesn’t mean getting lazier. A lot of older people like becoming more active or out going because they may have more free time now. It’s definitely a stereotype that older people are lazy and won’t be able to move as much, but that’s not true when maintaining a healthy lifestyle as you age.
Losing yourself
A lot of people think being young is when they are the most themselves and have their personalities completely figured out, but that’s not the case. So many people enjoy their middle to later years because they have fully understood who they are and what they enjoy doing the most. Ageing doesn’t take away your personality or self identity.
Not enjoying food as much
We’ve seen the stereotype of older people only eating the same things in rotation, but that’s often because that’s all they have access to. As you age your tastebuds change, but no so dramatically you’ll start to hate your favorite foods. Sweeter foods may taste even sweeter as you age, but that shouldn’t put off those who have a sweet tooth.
Becoming less adventurous
There’s nothing stopping you being adventurous and out going, unless you have specific needs. Many people over 65 go on hikes, camping trips or fun abroad vacations and it helps them to thrive and enjoy life after retirement. Ageing is a natural part of life and it doesn’t need to impact how you enjoy yourself.
Less creative with age
This isn’t true at all. Many people who have had hobbies for years become even more creative with age as they pick up expertise along the way. Painters, crafters or builders are found from any age group and those extra years of experience come in handy when it comes to figuring out new ways to create something.
Social media is just for kids
Social media is for everyone. More and more people over 65 are using social media, as it’s becoming easier to get your hands on it and learn the ropes. The internet has been around for ages now, and Facebook and instagram are great apps to keep in contact with friends.
Genes fully determine how we age
Genes only play a partial role in how we age. Lifestyle plays a huge factor as different aspects of how we live effect us in different ways. Smoking, drinking, diet and exercise can all impact looks and health issues, so don’t rely on genes for everything.
You suddenly become weak and frail
Ageing doesn’t mean weak. It’s surprising how resilient the body is, and how exercise can help with strength and balance. More and more older people are hitting up the gym or going for walks daily, and it really helps to keep their body and mind in check.
You’ll end up in a nursing home
Nursing homes are vital for the care of vulnerable people, but they’re not there to scare you about ageing. Not everyone ends up living in a nursing home, and live a very comfortable and happy life in their own homes. It’s all about personal choice and different health experiences.
Wrinkles are the main signs of ageing
Wrinkles can appear for other reasons other than just time. Sun light exposure can cause wrinkles in young people, as can smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. Ageing wrinkles tend to appear quicker alongside these other factors, so a healthy lifestyle can prevent early facial ageing.
Arthritis is a given
Typically associated with ageing people, arthritis is the inflammation of joints in the body, causing stiffness and pain. But it’s not a given to every ageing person. Sometimes it can be genetic or simply just down the life style or luck. Avoiding highly processed and sugary foods can help with symptoms.