We all have assumptions and long-held beliefs about aging. These beliefs might even cause you to worry about the later stages of your life. However, thanks to new research findings, much of what we think we know about aging is proving to be false. Studies show us that contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to face isolation or declining health when you grow older. It’s time to put these stereotypes to bed and enjoy the new opportunities that come with becoming an older adult.

Here are 5 common misconceptions that might be affecting your outlook on aging:

Myth #1: I don’t need as much sleep as I age.

Your body may experience more sleep disruptions as you get older, but adults of any age still require 7-9 hours of sleep each night. According to the National Institute on Aging, there are multiple reasons why seniors may experience sleep disruptions or feel less tired, ranging from one’s health status to natural aging. However, the human body’s sleep needs stay relatively consistent in adulthood and senior years.

Myth #2: Depression and loneliness are normal parts of aging.

 Mental health deserves attention and care in individuals of any age, especially older adults. You might be managing a disorder you were diagnosed with at a younger age, or you might have started to feel a low mood more recently. While the stigma around mental health is decreasing and conditions like depression are understood to be a common problem, they are not part of the natural course of aging. No matter the cause, you don’t have to suffer. The Canadian Coalition for Seniors Mental Health can help you learn more and start feeling better.

Myth #3: As a senior, I should exercise less to avoid injury.

 Exercising safely as you age is possible, and foundational to physical and mental health. Researchers on Aging at McMaster University have reported multiple benefits of staying active, including social connection and even mitigating health conditions. You may need to adapt the speed, movement range, or duration of some exercises or try gentler forms of fitness, but you can still enjoy the health benefits of moving your body.

Myth #4: I will have to give up driving as a senior.

 You deserve to maintain your autonomy as an older adult, including on the road. In the province of Ontario, you may continue driving as long as you maintain your licence and complete an educational session and tests for senior drivers. Drivers 80 years of age and older book these sessions as part of their regular licence renewal process. For more details, see Ontario’s information page for senior drivers.

Myth #5: It becomes harder to learn new things as I age.

 You can live life to the fullest and learn something new at any age. We’ve all heard someone say things like “but they don’t know better at their age” or “they can’t do that, they’re too old”. While it may stem from good intentions, it reinforces false notions around aging and limits what people can and cannot do as they age. Harvard Medical School reports you can retain brain plasticity and maintain cognitive health by trying new activities and finding fun ways to introduce challenges into your routine. It’s never too late to learn a new skill, appreciate ideas you’ve been unaware of, or start conversations with new friends. Your brain deserves a good stretch, just like your muscles!

Beat the Stereotypes with these Resources:

• McMaster University’s Portal for Optimal Aging: https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/

• World Health Organization’s Info Page on Aging: https://www.who.int/health-topics/ageing#tab=tab_1

• Ontario’s Programs and Services for Seniors: https://www.ontario.ca/document/guide-programs-and-services-seniors