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6 misconceptions and false myths about the elderly

6 misconceptions and false myths about the elderly

March 29, 2024

There are many myths that accompany older people and the aging process: loss of sexuality, bad character, depressions and a long etcetera.

Far from being rational, we fall into the error of generalizing traits in certain age groups , and older people are commonly the worst stops. To the outdated image in the way of thinking, we integrate a retrograde vision in the way of living and relating, something that every time hits more with the reality as they show both the media and themselves.

Myths and generalized errors about the third age

However, these myths survive despite the number of exceptions that represent the elderly.


These are s eis ideas that we have erroneously formed about our elders .

1. Aging implies physical and mental deterioration

As we get older, our abilities may be diminished, but this does not necessarily mean that we suffer a debilitating physical and mental deterioration. The key is to stay active to face old age with an optimal level and thus prevent the loss of functionality. Be a primary health agent and promote it instead of being carried away by what we believe has to come.

You may be interested in: "Mild Cognitive Impairment (DCL): concept, causes and symptoms"

2. Older people develop bad character

Often we talk about cantankerous, impertinent and ill-educated older people . However, we fall into the error of generalizing since these behaviors are not exclusive to the elderly. Do not you know a nice, educated and loving senior? If so, do not fall into this error.


3. We all have the same destiny in aging

"The acts I carry out in the present will determine my future." This is a reality, so depending on what kind of life you lead, so you will grow old . Start taking care of yourself now and follow the principles of active aging.

4. Aging is synonymous with loss of sexuality

Sexuality remains throughout life. With the age may decrease its activity, but the desire remains , as well as the exercise of his genital function.

5. As we get older we become more useless

This idea negatively affects opportunities for personal growth and autonomy.

In addition, it contributes to social isolation and attacks the state of mind. So serious is that others think this about the elderly, like they feel this way. If I do not believe in something, my actions will not be directed towards their search.


6. Older people are sadder than young people

The sadness is not linked to the years, but to the circumstances of life and the way we face and overcome them. Older people will live more likely critical moments, it is natural, but the life experience gives them tools to get ahead. The majority of the elderly reflect a high degree of well-being and happiness.

In conclusion

From the blog Aging in Network of the CSIC we conclude that…:

"Old age not only brings with it ailments: also happiness. It is not aging that reduces happiness, but the circumstances that are associated with aging. "

And it is that we have not been taught to grow old, but neither is the image of a disabling old age and generalized dependent. Today, maturity is one more stage of life characterized by healthy and active people who seek in a moment of fullness everything they wanted to do in life and could not for many reasons.

Surely if you stop to think you know people between 60 and 90 years old, happy, active, independent, full of energy and healthy. If so, do not fall into overgeneralization and get going to contradict all those myths putting you as an example in the future.


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