Doing away with the myths of the older generation

In today’s day and age, the elderly have negative stigmas attached to them — and this is how they’re all wrong

LET’S be honest; we’re all getting older.

Ageing begins the moment we are born and continues over our lifetime.

Each person experiences the ageing process in a different way, depending on their gender, culture, education, geographical location, economic situation, environment and the culmination of life events.

Every generation has an opinion on the ones before and after it, and as you get older, you may start to come across some negative attitudes about ageing.

A lack of knowledge about ageing sustains these myths and can lead to age discrimination.

Rather than conforming to these myths and stereotypes, make sure as you age you defy them and remind people those in the over-50s age bracket are still in the prime of their lives.

Myth one: all old people are unwell

This myth is mostly untrue, as the majority of older people are healthy and active, particularly those between 50 and 80 years old.

Myth two: older people are an economic burden on society

This myth is not only untrue, but the complete opposite, with older people making a significant contribution to the economy.

Each year they spend $895 million on domestic travel, they donate generously to charities and their unpaid work as carers and volunteers is valued at almost $39 billion per year.

Myth three: older people are unable to learn or change

Over 50s are defying this myth in large numbers, with increasing numbers of older people pursuing university or community class studies.

Many seniors have embraced learning new things and understanding these skills will allow them to take part in new activities and leisure interests.

Myth four: memory loss and senility comes with old age

While it is true that your risk of being affected by diseases like dementia does increase as you age, studies have shown you can maintain your intellect and creativity into old age.

Remembering these myths exist makes it easier to take steps to defy them.

Photo: shapecharge MYTH BUSTING: Becoming older doesn’t mean you have to stop doing what you enjoy.