The are all kinds of facts and fictions of aging that are thought to be inevitable aspects of getting older. Most of these stereotypes tend to lean more towards fiction than fact.
Let’s take a look at a few examples of senior stereotypes:
- Seniors can’t learn new technology
- Dementia is a natural part of aging
- Seniors are lonely and isolated
- Seniors shouldn’t have control over life decisions
- Seniors can’t live an active lifestyle
Seniors and Technology
In today’s society, technology plays a big role in our daily lives. Many people believe seniors either have no interest, or are not capable of learning to use new technology. This is simply not true. Sure, a portion of the senior population may feel overwhelmed by the rapidly evolving world of technology, but many learn how to use technology to improve their daily routines.
Here is one example of a Canadian woman over a hundred years old, that has incorporated technology into her life.
Technology can have serious perks for seniors such as:
- Social media and email – an easy and convenient way to keep in touch with friends and family
- Information highway – using the internet to search for new recipes, exercise routines, or any subject imaginable
- Nostalgia – access to favorite old songs, tv shows, and movies
- Online banking – taking care of finances from the comfort of home
Developing Dementia (one of the biggest facts and fictions of aging)
In a lot of cases, people believe Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to be an unavoidable part of aging. While aging can come with a certain degree of cognitive decline, dementia is by no means inescapable.
Living a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, social activity, and a nutritious diet can help keep the brain active and nimble.
Social Isolation
Social activity tends to see a decline as we get older. This typically happens because we no longer see work colleagues every day, and it also becomes more difficult to get out to visit with family and friends. It is true that there are many seniors suffering social isolation in Canadian society right now. Seniors living alone are at the greatest risk, especially when their mobility decreases and they can no longer drive or take transit.
Retirement communities are the shining stars that combat social isolation and help decrease loneliness. Having other people to eat with, and a continual schedule of groups, activities and outings can really help.
Life Decisions
Sometimes seniors are left out of making decisions for themselves. Family members may feel like they know the best way to care for an elderly loved one, or the best place for them to live. Seniors should always have the opportunity to weigh-in on decisions that affect their lives, or severe unhappiness and family fractures may occur. The best outcomes after decision-making occur when our elderly are deciding for themselves. If cognitive decline is present, a lot of patience and discussion may be needed to help your loved one see what is best for them.
Active Lifestyle
While it is true that our bodies begin to lose strength and mobility as we age, it does not mean that seniors should be giving up physical activity. In fact, it is just the opposite. It is critical for seniors to find a physical activity that they enjoy doing to maintain a decent level of physical fitness. As a home care services agency in Toronto and North York, our most elderly clients have been people who have exercised regularly throughout their senior years.
Seniors that don’t engage in exercise on a regular basis are much more susceptible to injury and illness.
Retire-At-Home Services Toronto and North York
Retire-At-Home is a reputable home care agency that specializes in providing services that help seniors keep living in their own homes for as long as they desire.
Caregivers can provide your loved one with increased social interaction, help with basic technology, exercise routines, interactive activities to keep the mind sharp, and daily personal care and housekeeping.
