Most Common Misunderstandings about Getting Older

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Common Misunderstandings about Getting Older in Des Moines, IA

A lot of people worry about aging because our society tends to make it seem like a boring time filled with health problems and discomfort. However, the reality is that the golden years can be one of the best times of someone’s life. There are several misconceptions about aging, and learning the truth can help your senior loved one build a more realistic picture of what to expect.

Most Seniors Rely on Others for Care

Thanks to medical advancements, plenty of seniors remain fully independent for decades. Many seniors live by themselves, have rich social lives, and even continue to work. In fact, 2019 research from the journal Health Affairs suggests less than a quarter of all seniors actually have high care needs. Some mobility limitations are normal, but most seniors can still care for themselves. The type of senior home care Des Moines, IA, 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.

Genes Determine How Someone Ages

Many people have the misconception that genetics are the deciding factor in how long someone lives and whether or not they will have serious illnesses as they age. The reality is genetics are responsible for only about 25 percent of the way a person ages. Instead, the main factors in how well seniors age are lifestyle and environment. Staying physically active, eating well, and avoiding stress all greatly affect how well your loved one may feel in old age.

People Lose Purpose after Retirement

Many seniors end up wondering, “What will I even do after I retire?” The answer is there are plenty of exciting things to do in the senior years. The idea that only a job provides purpose and a sense of meaning is a complete myth. There are plenty of rewarding things your loved one can do once he or she no longer has to spend time working.

Doctors Can Solve All Age-Related Health Problems

It’s true that modern medicine has many wonderful things, such as drugs that reduce blood pressure and surgeries that replace joints. However, no trip to the doctor’s office can entirely replace the effects of living a healthy lifestyle, so seniors still need to take care of their health. Little things like going for walks and making sure to drink eight glasses of water a day can have a huge impact on aging.  Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare services. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

It’s Too Late to Try New Thing

Many seniors express boredom with their current lives but are skeptical about the idea of learning new things. Research on brain plasticity does indicate learning new information gets trickier with age, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Many seniors pick up new skills, such as speaking another language, crocheting, playing video games, or dancing. Making the effort to try new things can boost cognitive function and memory, and the sense of novelty can make the senior years exciting and memorable. Aging has its benefits, but it can make daily activities challenging for some seniors. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing a serious illness and require more extensive 24-hour care. Des Moines seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.

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