by Dr. Marge Blaine
Numerous myths about aging exist, myths that worry us as we approach our middle and later years. They also concern those whose parents or other relatives are aging. Too many of us harbor the illusion that growing old means living in a nursing home, losing one's mental acuity, or having to abandon activities that gave pleasure throughout a lifetime.
Contrary to widespread belief, few of us will end up in nursing homes. Only 5% of the population spend their last years in such facilities. The overwhelming percentage of elders remain in their own homes. Most are able to maintain themselves, occasionally needing help with such chores as shopping or preparing food.
As far as fading mental capacity, statistics indicate that healthy older adults can learn anything that a younger person can. The main difference is in learning style. While children can absorb all kinds of information, often at the same time, older people learn best when they're focused and are interested in the subject. That means that if you've always wanted to study the major religions, learn a new language, or become a stock market maven, the later years may be the best time to do so!
Finally, there is no need to abandon enjoyable activities; most can be pursued at any age. For four years I worked with a group of people in their seventies, eighties and nineties at a senior center. Almost everyone did some kind of exercise, read extensively, and kept up with the news. Group members attended concerts and plays and, except for one woman who was legally blind and had to wait until films were on video, saw the latest movies.
What facilitates healthy aging? Physical activity helps. A woman in her nineties who looks much younger explains: "I walk at least a mile a day, usually two. When it rains, I walk in my apartment house corridor. Twenty times back and forth equals a mile." Mental stimulation is important too. Old age can be the time to learn and do things one never had time for when busy with raising a family or making a living. There are classes at senior centers and libraries as well as at community colleges.
Finally there's a need for emotional support. Connections with others--children or grandchildren, nieces and nephews, old friends and new--help elders remain engaged with the world around them and with life itself!